CN116537322A

CN116537322A - Shower bath

Info

Publication number: CN116537322A
Application number: CN202310361725.2A
Authority: CN
Inventors: R·A·雷克萨奇; S·塞姆泰勒; 康奈尔 D·J·里克特-O’; J·J·埃尔塞斯尔; J·S·吉费尔
Original assignee: Kohler Co
Current assignee: Kohler Co
Priority date: 2014-09-03
Filing date: 2015-09-03
Publication date: 2023-08-04
Also published as: EP2992963B1; US9808811B2; US20160059245A1; US20160060852A1; BR102015021594A2; CN105381894A; US10413917B2; CN113578547A; US11325139B2; US9718068B2; US20190314830A1; US20220048049A1; US20160059241A1; CN116397730A; US20200276597A1; US20160059240A1; US20160059244A1; US20240082856A1; US20170297040A1; US11213833B2

Abstract

The present invention provides a shower system comprising: a shower assembly configured to receive water from a source of water and pass the water through a plurality of outlets; and a mounting system for coupling the shower assembly to a building structure, the mounting system configured to adjust the shower assembly and comprising: a column configured to be fixedly coupled to a building structure; and a joint coupled to the shower assembly and adjustably received by the post such that a vertical position of the shower is adjustable relative to the post and the building structure.

Description

Shower bath

The present application is a divisional application of patent application of the invention named "shower" with application number 201510558184.8 and application date 2015, 9 and 3.

Technical Field

The present application relates generally to the field of showers, bathtubs and faucets. The present application relates more particularly to the field of showers.

Background

Conventional shower systems receive a pressurized supply of water and provide a substantially continuous flow of water from a shower head by forcing the water through nozzle holes to produce a stream. After the stream has exited the showerhead, some of the stream may be broken into water droplets via aerodynamics. These systems may use relatively large amounts of water to create the water flow. Thus, there is a need for a shower that produces a satisfactory shower experience at low flow rates.

Some shower systems provide water flow from the ceiling, but do not simulate the sound and feel of rain. Some users may prefer the feel of rain over the feel of showering. That is, some users may prefer a shower experience in the rain. Thus, there is a need for a shower that produces a more realistic sensation of rain.

Disclosure of Invention

One embodiment relates to a shower assembly having a panel including a wall and a first plurality of apertures through the wall from an inner surface to an outer surface, each aperture of the first plurality of apertures including an inlet and an outlet. The wall at least partially defines the reservoir and has an outer surface on a side of the wall facing the shower area and an inner surface on a side of the wall facing away from the shower area. When water is provided to the reservoir, the water passes through the first plurality of holes, water droplets form at the outlet of each hole of the first plurality of holes, and the plurality of water droplets fall from the panel.

Another embodiment relates to a shower assembly having a panel and a blocker movable between a first position and a second position. The panel includes a first region having a plurality of first openings through the panel and a second region having a plurality of second openings through the panel. When the damper is in the first position, water provided to the shower assembly is permitted to pass through the first plurality of openings but prevented from passing through the second plurality of openings. When the damper is in the second position, water provided to the shower assembly is permitted to pass through the plurality of second openings.

Another embodiment relates to a shower assembly that includes a top wall; a bottom wall; at least one side wall extending between the top wall and the bottom wall; a chamber defined by a top wall, a bottom wall, and at least one side wall; an inlet port configured to receive water from a source of water and provide the water into the chamber; and a first plurality of holes through the bottom wall, each hole of the first plurality of holes including an inlet and an outlet. The shower assembly is configured such that when water is provided to the chamber at the first operational flow rate, the water partially fills the chamber to a first height, passes through the first plurality of apertures by gravity, forms water droplets at the outlet of each of the first plurality of apertures, and falls from the bottom wall as a plurality of water droplets.

Another embodiment relates to a control system for a shower assembly comprising processing electronics relating to a shower assembly according to any of the above embodiments, the processing electronics being configured to control at least one of a flow rate of water, a temperature of water, a position of a blocker, an audio device, a lighting system, an odor diffuser, a disinfection system, and a water droplet trajectory.

The foregoing is a summary and thus contains, by necessity, simplifications, generalizations, and omissions of detail. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will appreciate that this summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other aspects, inventive features, and advantages of the devices and/or processes described herein will become apparent from the detailed description set forth herein when taken in conjunction with the drawings. Any or all of the features, limitations, configurations, components, sub-components, systems and/or subsystems described above or herein may be used in combination.

A shower assembly of the present application, comprising: an inlet port for receiving water from a water source; a reservoir for receiving water from the inlet port, the reservoir not being pressurized by line pressure of the water source; a plurality of water droplet outlet ports; wherein each of the water droplet outlet ports is configured such that water passes through the reservoir through the plurality of water droplet outlet ports, water droplets form at each outlet port, and fall from each outlet port only as discrete water droplets.

For the shower assembly, wherein the reservoir includes a bottom wall and each of the drip outlet ports extends through the bottom wall and includes an inlet, an outlet, and a through-hole extending between the inlet and the outlet.

For the shower assembly, the diameter of each through hole of the drip outlet port is between about 0.01 inch and about 0.04 inch.

For the shower assembly, wherein the reservoir includes a bottom wall and each of the drip outlet ports extends through the bottom wall; and

wherein each water droplet outlet port comprises an inlet, an outlet and a through bore extending between the inlet and the outlet, each inlet tapering inwardly to move downwardly to the through bore.

For the shower assembly described, each inlet is frusto-conical and defines a water reservoir.

For the shower assembly, each outlet tapers outwardly so as to move downwardly from the through aperture.

For the shower assembly, wherein the plurality of water droplet outlet ports includes the water droplet outlet ports having at least two different geometries to form the discrete water droplets of at least two different shapes.

For the shower assembly, wherein the different geometries include a first geometry and a second geometry, the first geometry forms a droplet and the second geometry forms a droplet larger than the droplet, and a ratio of the number of droplet outlet ports having the first geometry to the number of droplet outlet ports having the second geometry is at about 2:1 to about 3: 1.

For the shower assembly, the at least two different geometries have a uniform through-hole size.

For the shower assembly, wherein the plurality of water droplet outlet ports includes water droplet outlet ports having at least two different geometries to form the discrete water droplets having at least two different rates.

For the shower assembly, it further includes a plurality of stream outlet ports, each configured for passing water from the reservoir therethrough to form a water stream.

For the shower assembly, wherein the shower assembly is configured to allow water to selectively pass through the plurality of stream outlet ports.

For the shower assembly, wherein the shower assembly is configured to allow water to pass through the plurality of water droplet outlet ports while selectively passing through the plurality of stream outlet ports.

For the shower assembly, wherein each of the drip outlet ports includes an inlet, an outlet, and a through-hole extending between the inlet and the outlet, and each of the drip outlet ports is formed of silicone; and wherein the bottom wall includes a base having a plurality of apertures therethrough, each of the water drop outlet ports being formed by the silicone within one of the apertures.

For the shower assembly, wherein the inlet tapers inwardly to move downwardly to the through-hole and the outlet tapers outwardly to move downwardly from the through-hole.

For the shower assembly, wherein the silicone is further coupled to a bottom surface of the base to form a bottom surface of the bottom wall.

For the shower assembly, the silicone of each drip outlet port forms a protrusion extending downwardly from the bottom surface of the bottom wall.

According to another embodiment of the present application, a shower assembly is provided, comprising:

an inlet port for receiving water from a water source; and

a first plurality of water droplet outlet ports having a first geometry to pass water from the reservoir; and

a second plurality of water drop outlet ports having one or more additional geometries different from the first geometry to pass water from the reservoir,

wherein the first geometry is configured to produce discrete water droplets having a first size and one or more additional geometries are configured to produce discrete water droplets having a size greater than the first size.

For the shower assembly, wherein a ratio of the first plurality of water droplet outlet ports to the second plurality of outlet ports is between about 2:1 to about 3: 1.

For the shower assembly, wherein each of the drip outlet ports comprises an inlet, an outlet and a through bore extending between the inlet and the outlet, each inlet tapers inwardly to move downwardly to the through bore and form a water reservoir, and each outlet tapers outwardly to move downwardly from the through bore.

For the shower assembly described, each inlet is frusto-conical.

For the shower assembly described, each outlet is frusto-conical.

For the shower assembly, wherein the reservoir is not pressurized by line pressure of the water source.

a reservoir for receiving water from the water source; and

a plurality of water droplet outlet ports for passing water from the reservoir;

wherein each of the water droplet outlet ports is formed of silicone; and

wherein the bottom wall includes a base having a plurality of apertures therethrough, the base forming an upper surface of the bottom wall, and a silicone lining the apertures defining the water drop outlet ports, and the silicone being further coupled to a bottom surface of the base to form a bottom surface of the bottom wall.

For the shower assembly, wherein each drip outlet port comprises an inlet, an outlet and a through-hole extending between the inlet and the outlet, each inlet forms a water reservoir to collect accumulated water for subsequent passage of water through the through-hole, and each outlet tapers outwardly to move downwardly from the through-hole to form discrete droplets of water from the water passing through the through-hole.

For the shower assembly, each inlet tapers inwardly to move downwardly to the through hole.

For the shower assembly, wherein the plurality of water droplet outlet ports includes water droplet outlet ports having at least two different geometries to provide water droplets having at least two different sizes.

an inlet for receiving water from a source of water, the inlet configured to restrict water from the source of water to a maximum inlet flow rate;

a reservoir for receiving water from the water source from the inlet;

a plurality of first outlets configured to pass water from the reservoir; and

a plurality of second outlets configured to selectively pass water from the reservoir, the shower assembly configured for a user to selectively control whether water passes through the plurality of second outlets;

wherein the sum of the first collective flow rate of the first plurality of outlets and the second collective flow rate of the second plurality of openings is greater than the maximum inlet flow rate.

For the shower assembly, wherein the second collective flow rate is greater than the maximum inlet flow rate.

For the shower assembly, wherein the first collective flow rate is greater than or equal to about the maximum inlet flow rate.

For the shower assembly, wherein the shower assembly is configured such that a user cannot internally control whether water passes through the plurality of first outlets when water is present in the reservoir.

For the shower assembly, wherein the shower assembly is configured for passing water through the plurality of first outlets simultaneously with passing water through the plurality of second outlets.

For the shower assembly, each of the second outlets is configured to pass water from the reservoir in a continuous flow.

For the shower assembly, wherein each of the first outlets is configured to pass water from the reservoir as only discrete droplets.

For the shower assembly, wherein the reservoir is not pressurized by the supply pressure of the water source.

For the shower assembly, wherein the reservoir comprises a first tank and a second tank, the first tank comprises the first plurality of outlets and the second tank comprises the second plurality of outlets.

For the shower assembly, wherein the reservoir includes a wall separating the first and second tanks to restrict water flow therein.

For the shower assembly, it further comprises a valve configured to be actuated by a user to selectively control whether water from the second tank of the reservoir passes through the plurality of second outlets.

an inlet port for receiving water from a source at a source flow rate;

a reservoir for receiving water from the water source through the inlet port;

a plurality of first outlets configured to continuously pass water from the reservoir, a first collective flow rate of the plurality of first outlets being approximately equal to the source flow rate; and

A plurality of second outlets configured to selectively pass water from the reservoir while passing water from the plurality of first outlets.

For the shower assembly, each of the first outlets is configured to pass water only as discrete droplets.

For the shower assembly, each of the second outlets is configured to pass water in a continuous flow.

For the shower assembly, wherein a total aggregate flow rate of all water exiting the reservoir exceeds the source flow rate when water is simultaneously released from the plurality of first outlets and the plurality of second outlets.

For the shower assembly, wherein the shower assembly is configured to limit the source flow rate to a maximum inlet flow rate.

a reservoir comprising a first plurality of outlet apertures and a second plurality of outlet apertures;

wherein the reservoir is configured to source flow rate receive water from a source of water;

wherein the reservoir is configured such that during a first operating state, water exits the reservoir through only the first plurality of outlet apertures at a first flow rate, the first flow rate not exceeding the source flow rate; and

Wherein the reservoir is configured such that during a second operating state, water exits through the first plurality of outlet apertures at the first flow rate and through the second plurality of outlet apertures at a second flow rate, and a total of the first flow rate and the second flow rate of water exiting the reservoir through the first plurality of outlet apertures and the second plurality of outlet apertures exceeds the source flow rate.

For the shower assembly, wherein in the first operating state, water leaves the first plurality of outlet apertures as a single drop.

For the shower assembly, wherein the first plurality of outlet apertures is configured to produce water droplets having a plurality of different sizes.

For the shower assembly, wherein the second flow rate is greater than the source flow rate.

For the shower assembly, the flow of water leaves the second plurality of outlet apertures.

For the shower assembly, wherein the reservoir is pressurized by gravity and not by line pressure of the water source.

For the shower assembly, wherein the inlet is configured to limit the source flow rate to a maximum inlet flow rate.

According to a further embodiment of the present application, a shower assembly is provided, comprising:

A blocker movable between a first position and a second position;

a plurality of first openings in the first region; and

a plurality of second openings in the second region;

wherein when the blocker is in the first position, water provided to the shower assembly is permitted to pass through the plurality of first openings but prevented from passing through the plurality of second openings; and

wherein when the blocker is in the second position, water provided to the shower assembly is permitted to pass through both the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings.

For the shower assembly, it further comprises a panel, wherein the first region and the second region are regions of the panel, and the panel comprises the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings.

For the shower assembly, wherein the blocker includes a first portion and a seal coupled to the first portion, and wherein the seal separates the first region of the panel from the second region of the panel when the blocker is in the first position.

For the shower assembly, wherein the barrier comprises a lower wall; and

When the blocker is in the first position, the lower wall of the blocker is positioned adjacent to the second region of the panel such that the plurality of second openings are covered by the blocker; and

when the blocker is in the second position, the lower wall of the blocker is spaced from the second region of the panel such that the plurality of second openings are not covered by the blocker.

For the shower assembly, wherein the panel defines a tank in the second region, the tank being in communication with the plurality of second openings, wherein after the blocker is moved to the second position, the blocker is not moved back to the first position until the tank is substantially empty of water.

For the shower assembly, wherein the first plurality of openings is configured to drop water droplets from the first plurality of openings and the second plurality of openings is configured to drop water flow from the second plurality of openings.

a first outlet;

a second outlet;

a first inlet configured to provide water from a water supply to the shower assembly;

A blocker movable between a first blocker position and a second blocker position, wherein when the blocker is in the first blocker position, water exits the shower assembly through the first outlet but is prevented from exiting the shower assembly through the second outlet, and wherein when the blocker is in the second blocker position, water is permitted to exit the shower assembly through the second outlet; and

an actuator assembly configured to move the blocker between the first blocker position and the second blocker position, the actuator assembly comprising:

a housing;

a diaphragm operably coupled to the blocker and movable between a first diaphragm position corresponding to the first blocker position and a second diaphragm position corresponding to the second blocker position, the diaphragm and the housing at least partially defining a chamber fluidly coupled to the water supply; and

a return mechanism configured to bias the diaphragm to the second diaphragm position;

wherein when water is provided to the chamber, the diaphragm moves to the first diaphragm position, thereby causing the blocker to move to the first blocker position, and when water is inhibited from entering the chamber, the return mechanism moves the diaphragm to the second diaphragm position, thereby causing the blocker to move to the second blocker position.

For the shower assembly, wherein water is permitted to leave the shower assembly through the first outlet when the damper is in the second damper position.

For the shower assembly, further comprising a tank configured to receive water from the inlet, the second outlet configured to pass water from the tank;

wherein after water is inhibited from entering the chamber due to the blocker moving to the second blocker position, the diaphragm does not move back to the first diaphragm position until the tank is substantially empty of water.

For the shower assembly, wherein after water is inhibited from entering the chamber as the blocker moves to the second blocker position, the diaphragm moves back to the first diaphragm position substantially simultaneously with the tank being emptied of water.

an inlet configured to be coupled to a water source;

a plurality of water outlets;

a valve configured to move between an open position and a closed position to selectively permit water flow to the plurality of water outlets; and

an actuator for selectively moving the valve between the open position and the closed position, the actuator configured to receive water from the inlet to move the valve between the open position and the closed position;

Wherein the actuator is configured to maintain the valve in the closed position when the actuator receives water from the inlet; and

wherein the actuator is configured to move the valve from the closed position to the open position when the actuator ceases to receive water from the inlet.

For the shower assembly, wherein the shower assembly is configured for a user to selectively control whether the actuator receives water from the inlet to move the valve between the open position and the closed position.

For the shower assembly, it further comprises a reservoir configured to receive water from the inlet simultaneously with the actuator receiving water from the inlet, wherein the plurality of water outlets extend through a bottom wall of the reservoir.

For the shower assembly, wherein the valve includes a damper covering the water outlet, and the actuator moves the damper up and down to move the valve between the open and closed positions, respectively.

For the shower assembly, wherein the actuator includes a return mechanism that biases the damper upwardly to the open position.

For the shower assembly, wherein the actuator includes a diaphragm that moves the damper downward when water is provided to the diaphragm.

For the shower assembly, wherein the actuator is configured to move the valve from the open position to the closed position slower than it moves the valve from the closed position to the open position.

For the shower assembly, wherein the actuator comprises:

a housing defining a chamber coupled to the diaphragm to receive water; and

a flow regulator having an orifice for receiving water into the chamber at a first actuator flow rate to close the valve and a check valve for releasing water from the chamber at a second flow rate to open the valve, wherein the first flow rate is less than the second flow rate.

For the shower assembly, wherein the return mechanism comprises a spring.

For the shower assembly, wherein the damper comprises a gasket configured to seal against a portion of the tank to prevent water in the tank from flowing to the water outlet.

For the shower assembly, it further comprises a tank configured to receive water from the inlet and pass water through the plurality of water outlets when the valve is selectively moved to the open position, wherein the actuator is configured such that after the valve is selectively moved to the open position, the actuator maintains the valve in the open position for a predetermined amount of time that is insufficient to empty the tank through the plurality of water outlets.

For the shower assembly, it is further configured for a user to selectively actuate the actuator to maintain the blocker in the open position for an extended amount of time longer than a predetermined amount of time to release more water than during the predetermined amount of time.

For the shower assembly, wherein the actuator includes a diaphragm that receives water from the inlet to bias the valve to move to the closed position and a spring that moves the valve to the open position when the diaphragm does not receive water.

According to another embodiment of the present application, a shower system is presented, comprising:

a shower assembly configured to receive water from a source of water and pass the water through a plurality of outlets; and

a mounting system for coupling the shower assembly to a building structure, the mounting system configured to adjust the shower assembly and comprising:

A column configured to be fixedly coupled to the building structure; and

a joint coupled to the shower assembly and adjustably received by the post such that a vertical position of the shower is adjustable relative to the post and the building structure.

For the shower system, wherein the mounting system further comprises a bracket, the post is coupled to the bracket, and the bracket is configured to be coupled to the building structure to indirectly couple the post to the building structure.

For the shower system, wherein the post is a male member and the connector is a female member adjustably received on the post.

For the shower system, wherein the post is a female member and the connector is a male member adjustably received on the post.

For the shower system, wherein the shower assembly includes a chamber configured to receive water from the water source, and the plurality of outlets are configured to pass water from the chamber; and

wherein the chamber is defined by an upper wall through which the fitting extends into the chamber in a region to allow vertical adjustment of the shower assembly from the interior of the chamber.

For the shower system, wherein the upper wall is sealed in the region through which the fitting extends.

For the shower system, wherein the shower assembly includes a lower wall that seals the chamber and is removable to provide access to the fitting for adjusting the vertical position of the shower assembly.

For the shower system, wherein the chamber is substantially sealed.

For the shower system, wherein the panel includes the plurality of outlets.

For the shower system, wherein the chamber is configured to receive water from the water source and not pressurized by a supply pressure of the water source.

For the shower system, wherein the post has external threads and the joint includes a through hole having internal threads for receiving the post and adjusting the vertical position of the shower assembly.

For the shower system, wherein the shower assembly includes an upper wall having an aperture, the fitting includes a flange and an externally threaded shaft extending through the aperture, and the mounting system further includes a nut received on the threaded shaft, the upper wall being compressed between the flange and the nut.

For the shower system, wherein the mounting system further comprises a seal compressed between the upper wall and the nut to seal the aperture to prevent water from the shower assembly from passing through the aperture.

For the shower system, wherein the mounting system further comprises a gasket compressed between the seal and the nut.

For the shower system described, wherein the seal and gasket are provided as a single unit.

For the shower system, wherein the nut includes a seal that compresses against the upper wall to seal the aperture, thereby preventing water from the shower assembly from passing through the aperture.

For the shower system, wherein the shower assembly includes one or more additional shower mounting features, the mounting features are secured to the shower assembly in a first non-adjustable spatial orientation; and

wherein the mounting system comprises a bracket, the post, and one or more additional posts, the post being secured to the bracket in a second non-adjustable spatial orientation on the bracket, the bracket being configured to be fixedly coupled to the building structure so as to fixedly couple the plurality of posts to the building structure, and the second non-adjustable spatial orientation being configured to align each of the plurality of posts with one of the shower mounting features.

For the shower system, wherein the mounting system includes a plurality of joints, each joint is coupled to the shower assembly at one of the shower mounting features and is adjustably received on the post aligned with one of the shower mounting features such that a vertical position of each shower mounting feature is adjustable along the post on which the shower mounting feature is received.

For the shower system, wherein the shower assembly includes at least three shower mounting features, and the mounting system includes at least three posts and at least three joints, each post and each joint corresponding to one of the shower mounting features, such that the shower assembly is adjustable to a predetermined shower assembly orientation relative to a horizontal plane.

For the shower system, wherein the shower assembly includes a panel having a plurality of outlets arranged in a plane, and the predetermined shower assembly orientation requires the plurality of outlets to be arranged in a horizontal plane.

According to a further embodiment of the present application, a shower system is presented, comprising:

A shower assembly configured to receive water from a water source and pass the water through one or more outlets, the shower assembly having a plurality of shower mounting features provided in a first non-adjustable spatial orientation on the shower assembly;

a mounting system for coupling the shower assembly to a building structure, the mounting system configured to adjust the shower assembly to a predetermined shower assembly orientation, and comprising:

a bracket configured to be fixedly coupled to the building structure; and

a plurality of bracket mounting features provided in a second non-adjustable spatial orientation on the bracket configured to align each of the plurality of bracket mounting features with one of the shower mounting features for coupling thereto.

For the shower system, wherein each shower mounting feature includes an aperture through an upper wall of the shower assembly, and each bracket mounting feature is a post configured to be inserted through one of the apertures.

For the shower system, wherein the mounting system further comprises a plurality of tabs, each tab received on one of the posts and inserted into one of the apertures to couple each post to the shower assembly.

a shower assembly having a chamber configured to receive water from a water source and pass the water through one or more outlets, the shower assembly comprising an upper wall and a lower wall, the lower wall being coupled to the upper wall to define the chamber;

a mounting system for adjustably coupling the upper wall to a building structure;

wherein the lower wall is removable from the upper wall to provide access to the installation for adjusting the position of the shower assembly relative to the building structure.

For the shower system, wherein the mounting system includes a fitting accessible from inside the chamber.

an inlet configured to receive water from a source of water;

a first tank associated with a plurality of first outlets configured to pass water from the first tank; and

a second tank associated with a plurality of second outlets configured to pass water from the second tank;

wherein the second tank is configured to receive and collect water from the inlet and also distribute water to the first tank.

For the shower assembly, wherein the shower assembly includes a reservoir defining the first and second tanks, the reservoir has a wall separating the first and second tanks and restricting water flow therebetween.

For the shower assembly, wherein the wall includes one or more first apertures at a first height, and water enters the first tank through the one or more first apertures when the inlet fills the tank to the first height.

For the shower assembly, wherein the one or more first apertures are sized to provide a first collective flow rate of the one or more first apertures that is less than a maximum flow rate from the inlet to the second tank.

For the shower assembly, wherein the wall further comprises one or more second apertures at a second height, and water enters the first tank through the one or more second apertures when the inlet fills the second tank to the second height.

For the shower assembly, wherein the one or more second apertures are sized to provide a second collective flow rate of the first one or more second apertures, the second collective flow rate together with the first collective flow rate being greater than or equal to the maximum flow rate from the inlet to the second tank.

For the shower assembly, wherein the reservoir includes a floor panel, the wall is an inner wall coupled to and extending upwardly from the floor panel, and the reservoir further includes an outer wall extending upwardly from the floor panel.

For the shower assembly, wherein the first tank completely surrounds the second tank, the first tank is defined by the floor panel and between the inner wall and the outer wall, and the second tank is defined by the floor panel and within the inner wall.

For the shower assembly, wherein the floor panel includes the first plurality of outlets in a first region between the inner wall and the outer wall and the second plurality of outlets in a second region within the inner wall.

For the shower assembly, wherein the first tank and the second tank are not pressurized by the water source, each of the first outlets is configured to pass water only as discrete droplets, and each of the second outlets is configured to pass water as a continuous flow.

For the shower assembly, it further includes a valve configured to selectively release water from the second tank through the plurality of second outlets.

For the shower assembly, wherein the first tank includes a vent tube in non-selective fluid communication with the plurality of second outlets.

For the shower assembly, wherein the first tank does not receive water directly from the inlet.

a bottom panel having a plurality of first outlets in a first region and a plurality of second outlets in a second region;

an outer wall extending upwardly from the bottom panel; and

an inner wall extending upwardly from the bottom panel such that the bottom panel, the outer wall, and the inner wall cooperatively define a first tank and a second tank;

wherein the first tank is placed directly above the first region and in fluid communication with the plurality of first outlets; and

wherein the second tank is placed directly above the second region and in fluid communication with the plurality of second outlets.

The shower assembly wherein the first tank is in constant fluid communication with the first outlet and the second tank is in selective fluid communication with the plurality of second outlets.

For the shower assembly, each of the first outlets releases water from the first tank as discrete droplets only.

For the shower assembly, each of the second outlets releases water from the second tank as a continuous flow.

For the shower assembly, wherein the first tank and the second tank are not pressurized by line pressure of the water source.

For the shower assembly, wherein the first tank is in fluid communication with the plurality of second outlets.

a panel comprising a wall at least partially defining a reservoir and having:

an outer surface on a side of the wall facing the shower area; and

an inner surface on a side of the wall remote from the shower area; and

a first plurality of holes passing through the wall from the inner surface to the outer surface, each hole of the first plurality of holes including an inlet and an outlet;

wherein when water is provided to the reservoir, the water passes through the first plurality of apertures, water droplets form at the outlet of each of the first plurality of apertures, and a plurality of water droplets fall from the panel.

For the shower assembly, wherein the outlet of each of the first plurality of apertures is defined by a nozzle protruding from the outer surface of the wall.

For the shower assembly, wherein the outlet of each of the first plurality of apertures is defined by a nozzle defined by a recess formed in the outer surface of the wall.

For the shower assembly, the outlet of each of the first plurality of holes has a hemispherical shape.

For the shower assembly, wherein the outlet of each of the first plurality of holes has a diameter of between 0.025 inches and 0.32 inches.

For the shower assembly, further comprising a second plurality of holes through the wall from the inner surface to the outer surface, each hole of the second plurality of holes comprising an inlet and an outlet;

wherein the outlet of each of the first plurality of holes has a first outlet geometry, and wherein the outlet of each of the second plurality of holes has a second outlet geometry that is different from the first outlet geometry.

For the shower assembly, wherein the second outlet geometry comprises a shape different from a shape of the first outlet geometry.

For the shower assembly, wherein the second outlet geometry comprises a diameter different from a diameter of the first outlet geometry.

For the shower assembly, wherein the first plurality of apertures and the second plurality of apertures are substantially randomly distributed over the first region of the wall.

For the shower assembly, wherein the outlet of each of the first plurality of holes has a first geometry configured to form water droplets having a first diameter, and wherein the outlet of each of the second plurality of holes has a second geometry configured to form water droplets having a diameter greater than the first diameter, and wherein a ratio of a number of holes in the first plurality of holes to a number of holes in the second plurality of holes is at about 2:1 to 3: 1.

For the shower assembly, the wall includes between about 300 and about 450 holes per square foot.

For the shower assembly, wherein each aperture of the first plurality of apertures includes a through-hole extending between the inlet and the outlet, and wherein the inlet extends substantially through the wall to form a water reservoir above the through-hole, the water reservoir configured to store water during operation of the shower assembly.

For the shower assembly, wherein each aperture of the first plurality of apertures includes a through-hole extending between the inlet and the outlet, and wherein the through-hole has a diameter of between 0.01 inches and 0.04 inches.

For the shower assembly, wherein the diameter of the through hole is between 0.025 inches and 0.03 inches.

For the shower assembly, wherein the shower assembly is configured such that when water is provided to the reservoir at an operating flow rate, the reservoir is partially filled with water such that water passes through the first plurality of apertures by gravity, water droplets form at the outlets of the first plurality of apertures, and the plurality of water droplets fall from the wall.

For the shower assembly, it further comprises:

a plurality of flow holes through the wall, each of the plurality of flow holes having an inlet and an outlet, and each of the plurality of flow holes being configured such that, when water is provided to the inlet of each of the plurality of flow holes, a stream of water falls from the plurality of flow holes; and

a blocker movable between a first position and a second position;

Wherein the wall comprises:

a first region having the first plurality of holes; and

a second region having the plurality of flow apertures; and is also provided with

Wherein when the stopper is in the first position, water provided to the reservoir is permitted to pass through the first plurality of holes but prevented from passing through the plurality of flow holes; and is also provided with

Wherein when the stopper is in the second position, water provided to the reservoir is permitted to pass through the plurality of flow apertures.

a panel, comprising:

a first region having a plurality of first openings through the panel; and

a second region having a plurality of second openings, the plurality of second openings passing through the panel; and

a blocker movable between a first position and a second position;

wherein when the blocker is in the first position, water provided to the shower assembly is permitted to pass through the first plurality of openings but prevented from passing through the second plurality of openings; and is also provided with

Wherein when the blocker is in the second position, water provided to the shower assembly is permitted to pass through the plurality of second openings.

For the shower assembly, wherein the barrier comprises a lower wall;

wherein when the blocker is in the first position, the lower wall of the blocker is positioned adjacent to the second region of the panel such that the plurality of second openings are covered by the blocker; and is also provided with

Wherein when the blocker is in the second position, the lower wall of the blocker is spaced from the second region of the panel such that the plurality of second openings are not covered by the blocker.

For the shower assembly, it further includes a post extending upwardly from the panel;

wherein the stop comprises a guide wall extending upwardly from the lower wall and surrounding a perimeter of the post, and wherein the guide wall translates along the post as the stop moves between the first and second positions.

For the shower assembly, wherein the blocker moves between the first and second positions in response to at least one of a pull cord, a mechanical linkage, or an electric actuator.

For the shower assembly, wherein the plurality of first openings of the first region are configured to drop water droplets from the plurality of first openings when water is provided to the first region, and wherein the plurality of second openings of the second region are configured to drop a stream of water from the plurality of second openings when water is provided to the second region.

a top wall;

a bottom wall;

at least one side wall extending between the top and bottom walls;

a chamber defined by the top wall, the bottom wall, and the at least one side wall;

an inlet port configured to receive water from a water source and provide water into the chamber; and

a first plurality of holes through the bottom wall, each hole of the first plurality of holes including an inlet and an outlet;

wherein the shower assembly is configured such that, when water is provided to the chamber at a first operating flow rate, the water partially fills the chamber to a first height, passes through the first plurality of apertures by gravity, forms water droplets at the outlet of each aperture of the first plurality of apertures, and falls from the bottom wall as a plurality of water droplets.

For the shower assembly, further comprising a second plurality of holes through the bottom wall, each hole of the second plurality of holes having an inlet and an outlet, the inlet of each hole of the second plurality of holes being located at a second height, the second height being greater than the first height;

wherein the shower assembly is configured such that, when water is provided to the chamber at a second operating flow rate, the water partially fills the chamber to a third height, forms water droplets at the outlet of each of the first and second plurality of holes by gravity through the first and second plurality of holes, and falls from the bottom wall as the plurality of water droplets.

For the shower assembly, wherein the outlet of each of the first plurality of holes has a first geometry configured to form water droplets having a first diameter, and wherein the outlet of each of the second plurality of holes has a second geometry configured to form water droplets having a second diameter.

For the shower assembly, wherein the second diameter is greater than the first diameter.

For the shower assembly, it further comprises a third plurality of holes through the bottom wall, each hole of the third plurality of holes having an inlet and an outlet, and each hole of the third plurality of holes being configured such that, when water is provided to the inlet of each hole of the third plurality of holes, a stream of water falls from the third plurality of holes.

For the shower assembly, wherein the inlet of each of the third plurality of holes is at a fourth height, the fourth height being greater than the third height; and wherein the shower assembly is configured such that, when water is provided to the chamber at a third operating rate, the water at least partially fills the chamber to a fifth height, passing through the first, second and third pluralities of holes.

For the shower assembly, it further comprises a blocker movable between a first position and a second position;

wherein the bottom wall comprises:

a first region having the first plurality of holes and the second plurality of holes; and

a second region having the third plurality of holes; and is also provided with

Wherein when the blocker is in the first position, water provided to the chamber is permitted to pass through the first and second plurality of holes but prevented from passing through the third plurality of holes; and is also provided with

Wherein water provided to the chamber is permitted to pass through the third plurality of apertures when the blocker is in the second position.

a first outlet;

a second outlet;

a first inlet configured to provide water from a water source to the shower assembly;

a housing;

a diaphragm operably coupled to the blocker and movable between a first diaphragm position corresponding to the first blocker position and a second diaphragm position corresponding to the second blocker position, the diaphragm and the housing at least partially defining a chamber fluidly coupled to the water source; and

wherein when water is provided to the chamber, the diaphragm moves to the first diaphragm position, causing the blocker to move to the first blocker position, and when water is inhibited from entering the chamber, the return mechanism moves the diaphragm to the second diaphragm position, causing the blocker to move to the second blocker position.

a bottom wall, comprising:

a first region having a plurality of first openings through the bottom wall; and

a second region having a plurality of second openings through the bottom wall;

a second wall at least partially separating a first tank and a second tank, wherein the first tank corresponds to the first region and the second tank corresponds to the second region;

a blocker movable between a closed position and an open position;

wherein when the blocker is in the closed position, water provided to the shower assembly is permitted to pass through the first plurality of openings but prevented from passing through the second plurality of openings; and is also provided with

Wherein when the blocker is in the open position, water provided to the shower assembly is permitted to pass through the plurality of second openings.

For the shower assembly, wherein the second wall defines a first aperture through the second wall between the first and second tanks, and wherein during operation water enters the second tank from a water source and passes from the second tank through the first aperture to the first tank.

For the shower assembly, a ledge extends from the second wall, and a seal extending from the stopper sealingly engages the ledge when the stopper is in the closed position.

For the shower assembly, wherein the ledge is spaced from the second region of the bottom wall such that when the stopper is in the closed position, a space is defined between the stopper and the bottom wall; and is also provided with

Wherein the vent tube extends from the second wall and defines an overflow channel into the compartment.

For the shower assembly, wherein the second wall defines a first aperture through the second wall between the first and second tanks; and is also provided with

Wherein the vent tube extends from the second wall to an upper end having a height that is greater than the height of the first aperture such that when the water level exceeds the height of the upper end, water may pass through an overflow channel in the vent tube, through the space, through the second opening and out of the shower assembly, wherein the second opening passes through the bottom wall.

A control system for a shower assembly according to one embodiment of the present application includes processing electronics relating to the shower assembly described above, the processing electronics configured to control at least one of a flow rate of the water, a temperature of the water, a position of the blocker, an audio device, a lighting system, an odor diffuser, a disinfection system, and a water droplet trajectory.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a prior art showerhead.

Fig. 2 is a schematic illustration of various sizes of raindrops affected by air flow.

Fig. 3 is a schematic view of a large raindrop that is aerodynamically split.

Fig. 4A is a bottom perspective view of the shower assembly shown in a closed state according to an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 4B is a bottom perspective view of the shower assembly of fig. 4A in an open state, according to an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 5 is a schematic front cross-sectional view of the shower assembly of fig. 4A-4B, shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 6 is a bottom plan view of the shower assembly of fig. 4A-4B, shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 7 is a cut-away elevation view of a portion of the first region of the shower assembly of fig. 6, shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional elevation view of a portion of a second region of the shower assembly of fig. 6, shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 9 is a bottom plan view of the shower assembly of fig. 4A-4B, shown in accordance with another embodiment.

Fig. 10 is a cut-away elevation view of a portion of a first region of the shower assembly of fig. 9, shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional elevation view of a portion of a second region of the shower assembly of fig. 9, shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional elevation view of a portion of the shower assembly of fig. 4A-4B, shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 13 is a cut-away elevation view of a portion of the shower assembly of fig. 4A-4B, shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 14 is a cut-away elevation view of a portion of the shower assembly of fig. 4A-4B, shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 15 is a cut-away elevation view of a portion of the shower assembly of fig. 4A-4B, shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 16 is a schematic front cross-sectional view of the shower assembly of fig. 4A-4B, shown in accordance with another exemplary embodiment.

Figures 17 and 18 are a bottom perspective view and a front cross-sectional view, respectively, of the shower assembly of figures 4A-4B, with the damper in a first position, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Figures 19 and 20 are a bottom perspective view and a front cross-sectional view, respectively, of the shower assembly of figures 4A-4B, with the damper in a second position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 21 is a schematic view of a flow device for use with the shower assembly of fig. 17-20, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 22 is a schematic view of a flow device for use with the shower assembly of fig. 17-20, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 23 is a front cross-sectional view of the shower assembly of fig. 4A-4B including a flow device according to another exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 24 is a bottom plan view of the shower assembly of fig. 23.

Fig. 25 is an exploded bottom perspective view of the shower assembly of fig. 4A-4B, shown in accordance with another exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 26 is a cut-away elevation view of the shower assembly of fig. 25, shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 27 is a schematic view of the shower assembly of fig. 25, shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 28 is a schematic view of the shower assembly of fig. 4A-4B, according to another exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 29 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the shower assembly of fig. 4A-4B, shown in accordance with another exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 30 is a schematic view of the shower assembly of fig. 29, shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 31 is a schematic block diagram of a control system for a shower assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 32 is a schematic block diagram of the control system processing electronics of fig. 31, shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 33 is a cross-sectional elevation view of a portion of the shower assembly of fig. 4A-4B, shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 34 is a lower perspective view of a shower assembly according to an exemplary embodiment installed in a building structure.

Fig. 35 is an exploded view of the shower assembly according to the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 34.

Fig. 36 is a partially exploded view of a portion of the mounting system of the shower assembly.

Fig. 37 is a partial cross-sectional view of a shower assembly according to the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 34.

Detailed Description

Referring generally to fig. 4A-23, a shower assembly 100 and its components are shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The illustrated shower assembly 100 includes a faceplate 102 having an inlet port 106, a reservoir 120, and a plurality of apertures 108a, 108b, 108c (e.g., outlets) that receive water from a water source, the plurality of apertures for providing water from the faceplate 102 to a user. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the reservoir 120 is fed through the gravity feed holes 108a, 108b, 108c, and the holes 108 are configured to form water droplets 20 on the bottom wall 110 of the panel 102 such that discrete water droplets 20 fall on the user as rain. The flow device 150 (e.g., heavy rain, splash, pontuo heavy rain, flood) allows water in the reservoir 120 to selectively enter the additional plurality of apertures 108d, the apertures 108d being configured to allow water to flow out of the panel 102. The shower assembly 100 may include a control system 200, and the control system 200 may include a controller 230 and/or processing electronics 262, and may be configured to control the flow and/or temperature of water, lights, audio devices, and the like.

Before discussing further details of the shower assembly and/or components thereof, it should be noted that references in this specification to "front", "rear", "upward", "downward", "inner", "outer", "right", "left" are used merely to identify various elements as they are oriented in the drawings. These terms are not meant to limit the elements they describe, as the various elements may be oriented differently in various applications.

It should be further noted that for the purposes of this invention, the term "coupled" means directly or indirectly joining two members to one another. Such a coupling may be a stationary coupling in nature, or may be a movable coupling in nature, and/or such a coupling may allow liquid, current, electrical signals, or other types of signals to flow or communicate between two members. Such joining may be achieved using two members or two members and any additional intermediate members integrally formed as a single unitary piece with one another or using two members or two members and any additional intermediate members attached to one another.

Referring to fig. 1, a prior art showerhead 10 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. In a conventional showerhead 10, water is received from a pressurized water source and sent (e.g., through a manifold) to a plurality of openings sized to produce a substantially continuous flow of water 12 as the water is forced through the openings. In some cases, after the stream 12 has exited the showerhead 10, the stream 12 may be broken into water droplets via aerodynamics.

However, rain is different from the stream 12 provided by the conventional showerhead 10. Rain looks different, rain sounds different, and rain feels different. This is because the rain is formed by discontinuous water droplets 20 rather than by continuous water flow 12. Referring to fig. 2 and 3, various sizes of water droplets 20 (e.g., small water droplets 20a, medium water droplets 20b, large water droplets 20c, oversized water droplets 20d, etc.) are shown according to an exemplary embodiment. A small or fine rain typically has water droplets 20a with a diameter less than 0.5mm (0.02 inches). The medium rain includes water droplets 20b having a diameter of 1mm to 2.6mm (0.04 inch to 0.10 inch). Heavy rain (e.g., thunderstorm) includes water droplets 20c up to about 5mm (about 0.19 inch) in diameter. The arrows in fig. 2 represent the air flow around the water droplets 20 as they fall. As shown, the falling drop 20 is deformed by aerodynamic effects. Referring to fig. 3, when water droplets 20d greater than 5mm (0.2 inch) fall through the atmosphere, they tend to deform and break apart into smaller droplets 20a, 20b.

Referring to fig. 4A, 4B and 5, a bottom perspective view and a schematic front cross-sectional view of the shower assembly 100 are shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. The shower assembly 100 includes a faceplate 102 (e.g., a spray head) mounted in a ceiling 104 or adjacent to the ceiling 104. The shower assembly 100 includes an inlet port 106 for receiving water from a water source and one or more sets of a plurality of outlet ports 108 (e.g., holes, channels, openings, etc.), the outlet ports 108 for providing water from the panel 102 to a user. For clarity, fig. 5 shows only a few holes 108, but it should be clear that there may be many holes 108. The shower assembly of fig. 4A is shown in a closed state, for example, wherein the liquid control valve 202 is in a closed state, no water is supplied to the panel 102, and water has been drained from the panel 12. The shower assembly of figure 4B is in an open state, for example, in which water is supplied to the panel 102 and/or water is falling from the panel 102. As shown, the panel 102 is shown protruding from the ceiling 104; however, it is contemplated that the panel 102 may be recessed into the ceiling 104 and that the panel 102 (e.g., bottom wall 110) may appear substantially flush with the ceiling 104 (e.g., see fig. 20).

The faceplate 102 includes walls (e.g., a first wall, a lower wall, a shower wall, a drip wall, etc.) shown as a bottom wall 110 having a first surface (e.g., an inner surface, an inlet side, etc.) shown as a top surface 112 and a second surface (e.g., an outer surface, an outlet side, a shower surface, a drip surface, etc.) shown as a bottom surface 114 opposite the top surface 112. According to an exemplary embodiment, the bottom surface 114 is on the side of the bottom wall 110 facing the shower area, and the top surface 112 is on the side of the bottom wall 110 facing away from the shower area. The panel 102 may further include one or more side walls 116 and a top wall 118 extending upwardly from the bottom wall 110. The reservoir 120 (e.g., chamber, hole, box, etc.) is at least partially defined by the bottom wall 110, side walls 116, and top wall 118. The bottom wall 110 may be made of any suitable material (e.g., acrylic, silicone, polycarbonate, etc.) having suitable machining or molding capabilities,Stainless steel, etc.). Referring briefly to fig. 12, the faceplate 102 "may be formed by overmolding a second material onto the substrate 111 (e.g., core, etc.). For example, the substrate 111 may be a substantially rigid plastic core that provides structural integrity to the bottom wall 110 and may have a silicone surface 113 overmolded thereto to facilitate cleaning (e.g., hygiene, mineral accumulation, etc.). The silicone surface 113 may substantially surround the substrate 111 and form the top surface 112 ", the bottom surface 114", or both. For example, as shown in fig. 33, bottom wall 1010 includes a base 1011 having a hole therethrough, wherein silicone lines the hole of base 1011 to form outlet port 1008 (e.g., inlet 1030, through hole 1032, and outlet 1034). The base 1011, along with an inlet 1030 that is substantially flush with the base 1011, substantially forms a top surface 1012 of the bottom wall 1010. The silicone is further coupled to the bottom of the base to form a bottom surface 1014 of the bottom wall 1010 along with the outlet port 1008, from which the outlet port 1008 protrudes downward. It should be noted that the configuration of the bottom wall 1010 depicted in fig. 33 and described herein may be used with the shower assembly embodiments disclosed herein (e.g., 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 1100) Any of which are used together.

The panel 102 may be opaque, translucent, or transparent. The translucent panel may allow light to pass through the panel without revealing mineral accumulation in the reservoir. The transparent panel may allow light to pass through the panel 102 and any mineral buildup may be seen through the panel 102 and hydrophobic groups may be applied to the top surface 112 of the panel 102 to cause the mineral buildup to be formed in an aesthetically pleasing pattern. The transparent or translucent panel may be backlit (e.g., by one or more lights 212 shown in fig. 23) to allow a user to see the movement of water in the panel 102, which may be aesthetically pleasing. The side walls 116 and top wall 118 may be formed of the same or different materials as the bottom wall 110. According to the illustrated embodiment, the walls of the panel 102 (bottom wall 110, side walls 116, etc.) are planar; however, it is contemplated that the walls may be curved to facilitate liquid flow and to facilitate thorough emptying of the panel 102 (e.g., to facilitate drying of the panel during use).

The panel 102 may be opened to allow access to the reservoir 120 for cleaning and maintenance. According to various embodiments, the bottom wall 110 is releasably coupled to the side wall 116, or the side wall 116 is releasably coupled to the top wall 118. For example, the various walls (bottom wall 110, side walls 116, top wall 118, etc.) may be snapped together, locked together, or coupled by one or more hinges. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, bottom wall 110 and side walls 116 form a unitary structure that is rotatably coupled to top wall 118 via hinge 122.

The water source may be pressurized (e.g., from a municipal water supply, well pump, water tower, head tank, etc.), and the flow of water to the panel 102 may be controlled by the control system 200, and the control system 200 may include one or more liquid control valves 202 (e.g., volume control valves, mixing valves, pressure balancing valves, etc.). The liquid control valve 202 may also be configured to limit or restrict the flow rate of water received from the water source (e.g., the water source flow rate) to reduce its own flow rate (e.g., the maximum inlet flow rate) into the shower assembly 100. For example, instead of or in addition to the liquid control valve 202, the inlet 106 may include a flow restrictor that restricts the flow of water from the water source, or may otherwise be configured to restrict the flow such that the maximum inlet flow to the shower assembly 100 is restricted according to, for example, local specifications. As will be described in more detail below, it is contemplated that during exemplary use of the shower 100, the reservoir 120 may be at least partially filled (e.g., not completely filled), and thus not pressurized. Thus, the top wall 118 may be provided to prevent overflow, including accidental splashing, ease of cleaning, and the like.

According to one embodiment, the shower assembly 100 may include a disinfection system 700, the disinfection system 700 disinfecting a portion of the shower 100 to kill bacteria. For example, another embodiment of the disinfection system 700 may include a heater that increases the temperature of the liquid control valve 202 to kill any bacteria therein. Exemplary disinfection systems are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/797,263 entitled "Mixing Valve" and U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/796,337 entitled "sanitary fixture with heating element (Plumbing Fixture with Heating Elements)", and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The operation of the disinfection system may be controlled by the control system 200, as will be described in more detail below.

Before discussing further details of the panel 102 and/or components thereof, it should be noted that elements of various sizes and geometries in the exemplary embodiments are shown using alphanumeric reference numerals. For clarity, elements are generally referred to using only numerical reference numerals.

Referring to fig. 6, a bottom plan view of the panel 102 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. As shown, a plurality of outlet ports, shown generally as holes 108, are located on the bottom wall 110. According to the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the plurality of holes 108 may include a first plurality of holes 108a, a second plurality of holes 108b, a third plurality of holes 108c, and a fourth plurality of holes 108d (e.g., a plurality of streaming holes, etc.). As will be discussed below, the first, second, and third pluralities of holes 108a, 108b, 108c are shown to form small, medium, and large water droplets 20, respectively (e.g., water droplets 20 having first, second, and third diameters). In various other embodiments, the respective plurality of apertures may form any size of water droplets 20 or a combination thereof, and the panel 102 may include additional plurality of apertures 108 configured to form other sizes or ratios of water droplets 20.

The bottom wall 110 includes a first region 124 (e.g., an outer region, a drip region, etc.) and a second region 126 (e.g., an inner region, a flow region, etc.). The first region 124 and the second region 126 may have any suitable size or shape. For example, the first region 124 and/or the second region 126 may be circular, oval, elliptical, regular or irregular polygonal, a Reuleaux (Reuleaux) polygon, or any other suitable shape that may have linear or curved sides. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the first region 124 has an outer perimeter of 24 inches by 24 inches square (about 60cm by 60 cm), while the second region 126 is substantially circular with a diameter of about 9 inches (about 23 cm). According to other exemplary embodiments, the first region 124 has an outer circumference of about 19 inches by 19 inches (about 48cm by 48 cm) square. Of course, the dimensions may be different in other embodiments. For example, the first region 124 may be square or rectangular having at least one of the following dimensions: 21 inches (about 53 cm), 32 inches (about 81 cm), 36 inches (about 91 cm), etc. According to other embodiments, the shower assembly 100 may be modularly formed from, for example, a plurality of adjoining (e.g., continuous, adjacent, etc.) panels. The adjoining panels may, for example, each form a quarter of the first region 124 and the second region 126. The modular assembly may facilitate increasing the area of water drop formation (e.g., rain) to accommodate additional users, and may facilitate increasing the flow rate (e.g., water drops per second, volume per second, etc.), which may provide therapeutic effects to users, such as increasing heat transfer to users, increasing the temperature of the shower area, and increasing the humidity of the shower area. According to other embodiments, the shower may comprise a plurality of spaced apart panels; for example, each panel may be spaced about 4 inches (10 cm) from a nearby panel, and each panel may have a different pattern and distribution of apertures 108 to provide areas with different rainfall type characteristics.

With further reference to fig. 7, a cross-sectional view of a portion of the first region 124 of the bottom wall 110 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. A cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of each of the first, second, and third pluralities of holes 108a, 108b, and 108c is shown. Each aperture 108 has an inlet 130 for receiving water from the reservoir 120; the inlet 130 is shown as tapered to facilitate the flow into the bore 108 (see also fig. 33), but the inlet 130 may be any other shape. That is, the inlet 130 may taper inwardly to move downwardly to a through-hole 132 (e.g., conical or other straight, hemispherical or other curved) having various contours, and may additionally define a water reservoir, as described below. Each aperture 108 has an outlet 136 defined by a nozzle 134. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, nozzle 134 is defined by a groove or recess formed (e.g., machined, molded, cast, drilled, etc.) in bottom surface 114 of bottom wall 110.

The through bore 132 extends between the inlet 130 and the outlet 136 to provide a passage for water to flow between the inlet 130 and the outlet 136. The through-holes 132 are configured to restrict the flow of water from the reservoir 120 to the outlet 136 such that the surface tension of the water causes the formation of water droplets 20 on the outlet 136. The diameter of the through bore 132 is a function of the water pressure in the through bore 132 and the inlet 130. In the exemplary embodiment shown, water flows through the through holes 132 under the force of gravity, so the maximum pressure is limited by the height or depth of the panel 102. That is, the maximum pressure of the water flowing in the reservoir is not affected or pressurized by the supply pressure (e.g., line pressure) of the water source. Further, to achieve a desired level of water and thus a desired pressure within the reservoir, the number of apertures 108 may be adjusted relative to a desired flow rate into the shower assembly 102 (e.g., if constrained by the inlet). According to further embodiments, the faceplate 102 may be pressurized by water supplied to the faceplate, in which case the diameter of the through-holes 132 may be narrowed to further restrict water flow from the reservoir 120 to the outlet 136. When the water droplets 20 reach a predetermined size (e.g., a decisive stage), gravity overcomes the surface tension of the water and causes the water droplets 20 to disengage from the panel 102 and fall. The size and ratio of the water droplets 20 at the decisive stage is a function of the material properties of the bottom wall 110, the temperature of the water (which in turn affects the temperature of the bottom wall), impurities in the water, the diameter of the through holes 132, the length of the through holes 132 and the geometry of the outlet 136. Applicant has determined how to regulate the water flow throughout the operating conditions to prevent the stream. Applicant has determined the range of diameters of the through-holes 132 and the geometry of the outlets 136 that provide consistent water droplet 20 formation at various materials, operating temperatures, and through-hole lengths. More specifically, the geometry of the outlet 136 affects the size of the water droplets 20, and the diameter of the through holes 132 affects the water droplet formation and flow stream. That is, the geometry of each of the holes 108 is configured to produce discontinuous water droplets and prevent flow when the water in the reservoir 120 is at or below the maximum pressure in the reservoir 120.

The diameter of the through hole 132 is preferably less than 0.04 inches. According to another embodiment, the diameter of the through hole 132 is between 0.01 inches and 0.04 inches. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the diameter of the through holes 132 is preferably between 0.025 inches and 0.03 inches. Although the through holes 132 are shown as having the same diameter, it is contemplated that in various embodiments the diameters of the through holes 132a, 132b, 132c may be the same or different. For example, the diameter of the through-hole 132c may be slightly larger than the diameter of the through-hole 132b, and the diameter of the through-hole 132b may be slightly larger than the diameter of the through-hole 132 a. For large outlets 136, a slightly larger through-hole diameter may increase the flow rate through the through-hole 132, which in turn may increase the rate of water droplet formation (i.e., water droplets per second), thereby bringing the rate of large water droplet formation closer to the rate of medium water droplet formation or the rate of small water droplet formation.

As shown, the outlet 136 is hemispherical. However, it is contemplated that the outlet geometry may take other shapes, such as oval, pyramidal, conical (e.g., as shown in fig. 12 and 13 and 33), substantially planar (e.g., as shown in fig. 14), and so forth. According to some embodiments, the diameter of the outlet 136 ranges from the diameter of the through bore 132 to 0.35 inches. That is, the diameter of the outlet 136 may taper outwardly to move downwardly from the through bore. According to another embodiment, the diameter of the outlet 136 is in the range from about 0.025 inches to about 0.032 inches. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the diameter of outlet 136 is in the range from about 0.075 inches to about 0.315 inches. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, outlet 136b has a diameter of approximately 0.17 inches.

With further reference to fig. 8, a cross-sectional view of a portion of the second region 126 of the bottom wall 110 is shown. A cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a fourth plurality of holes or streamed plurality of holes 108d is shown. The illustrated bore 108d has an inlet 130d, a through bore 132d, and an outlet 136d defined by a nozzle 134 d. The illustrated nozzle 134d is defined by a recess 138d formed in the bottom surface 114 of the faceplate 102. The diameter of the through-holes 132d is sufficiently large so that water can pass through the through-holes 132 sufficiently freely to form a substantially continuous flow of water. That is, the mass flow rate of water through the apertures 108d is large enough that gravity acting on a substantial portion of the water continuously exceeds the surface tension of the water, thereby tending to bind the water to the panel 102. According to one embodiment, the diameter of the through hole 132d may be greater than 0.1 inches. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the diameter of the through hole 132d is approximately 0.125 inches. As described in more detail below, for some bathing activities, such as washing away soap or shampoo, the user may prefer a continuous water stream 12. The aperture 108d is shown having an outlet 136d. Since the water flowing through the apertures 108d forms a substantially continuous stream 12, the outlet 136d does not contribute to the formation of water droplets 20 during operation of the shower assembly 100.

Referring to fig. 9, a bottom wall plan view of a panel 102 'according to another exemplary embodiment having a bottom wall 110' is shown. The bottom wall 110' is shown as having a plurality of outlet ports 108' distributed throughout the first and second regions 124', 126' of the bottom wall 110 '. The first region 124 'and the second region 126' may have any suitable size or shape. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the first region 124 'has an outer perimeter of 24 inches by 24 inches square (about 60cm by 60 cm), while the second region 126' is substantially circular having a diameter of about 10 inches (about 25 cm); however, it is contemplated that other embodiments may have other dimensions.

The randomness of the holes 108' shown in the embodiment of fig. 9 is approximately that of the holes 108 shown in the embodiment of fig. 6. For example, the distribution of apertures 108 of the embodiment of FIG. 6 is relatively more ordered and relatively less random than the distribution of apertures 108'. Referring briefly to fig. 24, the holes 308 are shown to have a greater degree of randomness than the holes 108 shown in the fig. 6 embodiment, and the holes 308 are shown to have a density between the densities of the holes 108 shown in fig. 6 and 9. The random distribution of apertures 108, 108', 308 provides the user with a more natural rain sensation than ordered apertures 108, 108', 308. However, it is contemplated that the apertures 108, 108', 308 may be arranged in rows, circles, spirals, or other ordered regular or irregular patterns. Upon review of this specification, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that in various aspects, the random (e.g., substantially random, pseudo-random, statistically random, etc.) distribution of apertures 108 may not be truly random, as a single substantially random pattern may be regenerated for production purposes rather than creating a truly random distribution on each panel. The distribution does not contain a recognizable pattern or law that may be sufficient as a random distribution as used herein. Furthermore, the random distribution of holes 108 may be isolated by or within the region. For example, the apertures 108a, 108b, 108c may be randomly distributed within the first regions 124, 124', while the apertures 108d may be randomly distributed within the second regions 126, 126'.

As shown, the density of the holes 108' shown in the embodiment of fig. 9 is greater than the density of the holes 108 shown in the embodiment of fig. 6. According to an exemplary embodiment, the bottom wall 110 of the panel 102 includes between about 250 to about 500 apertures 108 per square foot. According to another embodiment, the faceplate 102 includes between about 300 and about 450 apertures 108 per square foot. According to another embodiment, the faceplate 102 includes between about 300 and about 425 holes 108 per square foot. According to another embodiment, the faceplate 102 includes about 400 holes 108 per square foot. The density of these holes 108 provides a sense of true rain with enough raindrops to provide adequate heat transfer to keep the user warm.

According to various embodiments, the distribution of the small, medium, and large outlets 136, 136' may be unequal. For example, the distribution of small outlets 136a may be less than the distribution of large or medium outlets 136b and large outlets 136c at about 2:1 to about 3: 1. Referring briefly to FIG. 24, the distribution of outlets 336 is shown biased toward more small outlets 336a and less medium outlets 336b and large outlets 336c. The small outlets 136a form small water droplets 20a that form faster than medium water droplets 20b or large water droplets 20 c. Faster drop formation increases the rate at which the drops fall (i.e., drops per second), thereby creating a greater drop density and increasing heat transfer to the user. As discussed above, increasing the size of the faceplate 102 may increase the number of large outlets 136c, thereby increasing the ratio of large water droplets 20 c; however, this may require a higher flow rate and may be over a larger area, not all of the water droplets may be transmitted to the user. Furthermore, too many large water droplets may make the user insensitive to small water droplets. It is further contemplated that the distribution of apertures may be configured to match local preferences for rain (e.g., monsoon and gusts, etc.) and operate at local water supply rates (which may be up to 6 gallons per minute).

With further reference to fig. 10, a cross-sectional view of a portion of the first region 124 'of the bottom wall 110' is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The aperture 108 'of the first region 124' may be substantially similar to the aperture 108 of the first region 124 of the embodiment of fig. 7. For example, the first region 124 'may include apertures 108a', 108b ', 108c' that may have different sizes and/or geometries. As shown, each aperture 108b 'may have an inlet 130b', an outlet 136b ', and a through-hole 132b', the inlet 130b 'for receiving water from the reservoir 120, the outlet 136b' being defined by a nozzle 134b ', the through-hole 132b' extending between the inlet 130b 'and the outlet 136b' to provide a passageway for water to flow between the inlet 130b 'and the outlet 136 b'. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, nozzle 134b 'protrudes from bottom surface 114' and has a rounded inner edge 139.

With further reference to fig. 11, a cross-sectional view of a portion of the second region 126 'of the bottom wall 110' is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The aperture 108 'of the second region 126' may be substantially similar to the aperture 108 of the second region 126 of the embodiment of fig. 8. For example, the flow aperture 108d ' may include a through-hole 132d ' having a sufficiently large diameter such that water may pass through the through-hole 132d ' sufficiently freely so as to form a substantially continuous flow of water. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, outlet 136d 'is substantially hemispherical and nozzle 134d' is formed as a protrusion from bottom surface 114 'having a rounded inner edge 139 d'.

Referring to FIG. 12, a cross-sectional view of a portion of a first region 124 "of a bottom wall 110" is shown according to another exemplary embodiment. The first region 124 "may include holes 108 a", 108b ", 108 c" that may have different sizes and/or geometries. As shown, each bore 108c "may have a through bore 132 c" and an inlet 130c ", the through bore 132 c" being axially shorter than the through bores 132, 132 'of the embodiments of FIGS. 7-8, 10-11 and 13-15, the inlet 130c "being axially longer than the inlets 130, 130c' of the embodiments of FIGS. 7-8, 10-11 and 13-15. As shown, the through-hole 132c "forms an orifice (e.g., orifice plate, throttle valve, etc.), and the inlet 130 c" extends substantially through the bottom wall 110 "to form a water reservoir 131 (e.g., reservoir, bladder, etc.) above the orifice, which is shown as 131c. The water reservoir 131 stores water such that the outlet 136 "is not starved of water during operation of the flow device 150, 350 (e.g. heavy rain, splatter, pont heavy rain, flood) or during low water levels, and water droplets may continue to form until the water reservoir 131 is empty. According to one embodiment, the size of the water reservoir 131 is configured to hold enough water such that water is provided to the outlet 136 "to form water droplets for a period of time when the reservoir 120 is emptied during operation of the flow device 150, 350 until the reservoir 120 is sufficiently filled to cover the top surface 112" of the bottom wall 110 "with water.

As shown, the outlet 136c "is substantially conical and defined by the nozzle 134 c". The bore 108c "includes a rounded shoulder 133, the rounded shoulder 133 smoothly engaging the surface of the through bore 132 c" with the surface of the outlet 136c ". Providing a smooth transition facilitates water droplet formation and avoids discontinuities that may result in water separating from the surface of the through bore 132c ", shoulder 133 or outlet 136 c". The illustrated through bore 132c "also has a radially outwardly extending wall as if the wall were axially remote from the inlet 130 c". Thus, the aperture formed by the through-hole 132c″ is a point constraint. The point constraint facilitates more rapid formation of water droplets. Further advantageously, the shortened through-hole 132c "may be curved in response to the curvature of the nozzle 134 c" (e.g., using a finger); thus, mineral accumulation in the orifice can be cleaned (removed, crushed, flushed with water, etc.) by rubbing with a finger on the nozzle 134c″. According to various embodiments, the through-hole 132c "may be tapered or frustoconical. According to the illustrated embodiment, the sidewall of the through-hole 132c "has a continuous curve smoothly joining to the surface of the outlet 136 c". According to one embodiment, the through-hole 132c "and the outlet 136 c" have an inverted (i.e., inverted) funnel shape.

According to some embodiments, the diameter of the through-hole 132 "at its narrowest point is preferably between 0.025 inches (about 0.63 mm) and 0.03 inches (about 0.76 mm). According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the diameter of the through hole 132 "at its narrowest point is preferably between 0.027 inches (about 0.69 mm) and 0.029 inches (about 0.74 mm). The diameters of the through holes 132a ", 132 b", 132c "may be the same or different. For example, the diameter of the illustrated via 132c "is slightly larger than the diameter of the via 132 b", while the diameter of the via 132b "is slightly larger than the diameter of the via 132 a". According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the diameter of the outlets 136 "at their widest point ranges from about 0.14 inches (about 3.55 mm) to about 0.335 inches (about 8.5 mm). According to the exemplary embodiment shown, outlet 136b has a diameter of approximately 0.17 inches.

As shown in fig. 33, although the water reservoir 131 depicted in fig. 12 has a substantially constant diameter, the hole 1008 may alternatively comprise a water reservoir 1301, the water reservoir 1301 tapering (e.g., conically) inwardly from the inlet 1030 or uppermost surface of the hole 1008 until through-hole 1032. Further, as shown in fig. 33, although the upper surface 110 "shown in fig. 12 has the same material (e.g., silicone) as the geometry forming the defined aperture 108, the base 1011 may instead form the upper surface 1012 of the bottom panel 1002 of the shower assembly 1000, with the bottom surface 1014 formed of the material (e.g., silicone) coupled to the base 1011 forming the aperture 1008 geometry so as to completely cover the lower surface of the base 1011. In addition, the siloxane itself defining the geometry of the holes 1008 may additionally protrude downwardly from the bottom surface of the substrate 1011 and/or the bottom plate 1002.

Fig. 13-15 illustrate various exemplary embodiments of the nozzle 134, the nozzle 134 being formed as a protrusion from the bottom surface 114 of the bottom wall 110. The outlet 136x of fig. 13 is shown as being substantially conical. The outlet 136y of fig. 14 is shown as being substantially planar or orthogonal to the through-hole 132y. The outlet 136z of fig. 15 is shown as being substantially hemispherical.

Referring briefly to fig. 5 and 16, it is contemplated that the shower assembly 100 is configured to prevent water entering the reservoir 120 from completely filling the reservoir 120. The partially filled (e.g., incompletely filled) reservoir 120 is not pressurized and water exits through the aperture 108 via gravity. Gravity may be pulled directly over the water (e.g., water molecules, a portion of the water, etc.), and/or indirectly through acting on another portion of the water to create a head that is proportional to the gravity and the height of the water in the reservoir 120. According to one embodiment, the total flow of the orifice 108 exceeds the maximum flow rate (e.g., maximum inlet flow rate) of the liquid control valve 202 or inlet 106 (e.g., less than or equal to 2.5 gallons per minute). According to another embodiment, the side walls 116 or bottom wall 110 may include overflow channels to permit excess water to flow out of the panel 102 (see, e.g., the vent tubes 465 in fig. 26). The shower assembly 100 may include a switch (e.g., a float valve) configured to at least partially close the liquid control valve 202 in response to the depth of water in the reservoir 120 reaching a predetermined depth. The switch may operate directly on the liquid control valve 202 or may operate indirectly by sending a signal via the control system 200 as described more below.

Referring to FIG. 16, a panel 102' "according to another exemplary embodiment is shown. For clarity, fig. 16 shows only a few apertures 108 '"(e.g., apertures 108e, 108f, 108 g), but it should be clear that there may be many apertures 108'". The faceplate 102 '"includes a bottom wall 110'" defining a first aperture 108e, a second aperture 108f, and a third aperture 108g, the first aperture 108e having an inlet 130e, the second aperture 108f having an inlet 103f, and the third aperture 108g having an inlet 130g. The height of the inlets 130e, 130f and 130g are staggered so that water in the reservoir 120 enters different apertures 108 depending on the depth of the water in the reservoir 120. The inlet 130e of the first aperture 108e is at a first height 141 above the top surface 112 '"of the bottom wall 110'". As shown, the height of the inlet 130e and the height of the top surface 112' "are substantially equal. When the water is at the second level 142, the water flows through the first aperture 108e. The inlet 130f of the second aperture 108f is at a third height 143 above the top surface 112 '"of the bottom wall 110'". As shown, the third height 143 is greater than the first and second heights 141, 142 such that when the water level in the reservoir 120 is at the second height 142, water flows through the first aperture 108e but not through the second aperture 108f. Water may also flow through the second aperture 108f when the water is at the fourth level 144. The inlet 130g of the third aperture 108g is at a fifth height 145 above the top surface 112 '"of the bottom wall 110'". As shown, the fifth height 145 is greater than the fourth height 144 and the third height 143 such that when the water level in the reservoir 120 is at the fourth height 144, water flows through the second aperture 108f but not through the third aperture 108g. Water may also flow through the third apertures 108g when the water is at the sixth height 146.

The shower assembly 100 may be configured such that when water is provided to the reservoir at a first operational flow rate (e.g., a low flow rate), the water partially fills the reservoir 120 above the first height 141, passes through the plurality of first apertures 108e by gravity, forms water droplets 20 at the outlet 136e of each of the plurality of first apertures 108e, and falls from the bottom wall 110 as a plurality of water droplets 20. At the first operating flow rate, the ratio of water exiting through the first aperture 108e may be equal to the ratio of water entering the reservoir 120 such that the height of water in the reservoir 120 does not exceed the height of the inlet 130 f.

The shower assembly 100 may be configured such that when water is provided to the reservoir at a second operational flow rate (e.g., a medium flow rate), the water partially fills the reservoir 120 above the third height 143, forms water droplets 20 at the outlet of each of the plurality of first holes 108e and the plurality of second holes 108f by gravity through the plurality of first holes 108e and the plurality of second holes 108f, and drops the plurality of water droplets 20 from the bottom wall 110. At the second operating flow rate, the ratio of water exiting through the first and second apertures 108e, 108f may be equal to the ratio of water entering the reservoir 120 such that the height of water in the reservoir 120 does not exceed the height of the inlet 130 g.

The shower assembly 100 may be configured such that when water is provided to the reservoir at a third operational flow rate (e.g., a high flow rate), the water partially fills the reservoir above the fifth height 145, by gravity through the first, second, and third plurality of apertures 108e, 108f, 108g, water droplets 20 form at the outlet of each of the first, second, and third plurality of apertures 108e, 108f, 108g, and the plurality of water droplets 20 fall from the bottom wall 110. At the third operating flow rate, the ratio of water exiting through the first, second, and third apertures 108e, 108f, 108g may be equal to the ratio of water entering the reservoir 120 such that the reservoir 120 is not filled with water. According to an exemplary embodiment, the rate at which water exits through the first, second, and third apertures 108e, 108f, 108g is approximately 2.5 gallons per minute. Because of the feel of a single water droplet 20, the user may enjoy a satisfactory shower experience at a lower rate than is required by the water stream 12. That is, a single water droplet 20 may cause the user to perceive a flow rate that is greater than the flow rate perceived from the equivalent flow rate of the water stream 12. Thus, the user can use less water while perceiving a conventional higher flow rate. Thus, at the third operating flow rate, the ratio of water exiting through the first, second, and third apertures 108e, 108f, 108g may be configured to be equal to the ratio of water entering the reservoir 120, and the volume of the liquid control valve 202 may be less than 2.5 gallons per minute.

According to various embodiments, the outlets 136e, 136f, 136g may have the same or different geometries. For example, the outlet 136f may be larger than the outlet 136e such that larger water droplets 20 are formed on the outlet 136 f. Thus, the second operational flow rate may produce larger raindrops corresponding to medium water drops 20b formed in medium rain. The bore 108g may again have a larger outlet 136g, producing even larger droplets 20c at a corresponding third operational flow rate, thereby simulating a heavy rain. According to another embodiment, the third hole 108g may be a flow hole as described with respect to holes 108d and 108d' of fig. 8 and 11. Thus, a high operating flow rate may cause water flow from the faceplate 102' ".

Referring to fig. 17-20, a shower assembly 100 is shown, the shower assembly 100 including a flow device 150, according to an exemplary embodiment. The illustrated flow device 150 includes a damper 152 that is movable between a first position (e.g., as shown in fig. 18) and a second position (e.g., as shown in fig. 20). When the stopper 152 is in the first position, water provided to or present within the reservoir 120 is permitted (e.g., without user selection) to pass through a first plurality of apertures (e.g., apertures 108a, 108b, 108c, etc., in constant fluid communication with the reservoir 120) through the first region 124, but not through a plurality of flow apertures 108d through the second region 126 of the bottom wall 110. That is, the flow aperture 108d is in selective fluid communication with the reservoir 120. As also shown in fig. 20, water may fall from apertures 108a, 108b, 108c and from aperture 108d simultaneously, despite the stopper being in the second position, since water may still be present above apertures 108a, 108b, 108 c.

According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the apertures 108a, 108b, 108c are substantially similar to the apertures 108a, 108b, 108c shown and described in fig. 6-7. Thus, the first plurality of holes 108a, 108b, 108c in the first region 124 are configured such that water flowing through the first plurality of holes 108 forms water droplets 20 on the bottom wall 110 before falling from the bottom wall 110. As further shown, the flow aperture 108d is substantially similar to the aperture 108d shown and described in fig. 6 and 8. Thus, water flowing through the plurality of flow apertures 108d falls from the panel 102 in a substantially continuous flow of water. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the diameter of the aperture 108d is set to allow water to quickly empty from the reservoir 120 so that the user is flushed (e.g., submerged, soaked, submerged, etc.) by the water flow 12. Such quick-empty reservoirs 120 may facilitate rinsing of soap or shampoo. The plurality of flow holes 108d may be configured such that rapid emptying of water from the reservoir 120 exceeds the maximum flow rate of the liquid control valve 202. That is, the collective flow rate of water present in the tank through the first plurality of apertures 108a, 108b, 108c and the collective flow rate of water present in the tank through the second plurality of apertures 108d together exceed the maximum inlet flow rate (e.g., source flow rate) from the water source into the shower assembly (e.g., via the inlet port 106). For example, the flow rate through the plurality of flow apertures 108d may exceed 2.5 gallons per minute, while the liquid control valve 202 may have a maximum flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute. According to an exemplary embodiment, the flow rate through the plurality of orifices may exceed 8 gallons per minute. Such rapid emptying of water from the reservoir 120 may facilitate emptying of the reservoir 120 during use of the panel 102. Furthermore, the collective flow rate of the first plurality of apertures 108a, 108b, 108c may additionally be configured to have a maximum flow rate that is greater than or equal to the maximum source flow rate such that the reservoir 120 does not overflow. These concepts regarding the relative collective flow rates of the different apertures and the water supply are for other shower assembly embodiments discussed below.

According to the exemplary embodiment shown, blocker 152 includes a first portion 153 and a seal 156 coupled to first portion 153. As shown, the first portion 153 includes a lower wall 154 (e.g., bottom wall, water wall, etc.), and a seal 156 is coupled to the lower wall 154. The seal 156 may be an O-ring seated in an annular groove that extends around the outer periphery of the lower wall 154. When the stop 152 is in the first position, the seal 156 separates the first region 124 from the second region 126. When the stopper 152 is in the first position, the lower wall 154 is positioned adjacent to the second region 126 of the bottom wall 110 and may cover the aperture 108d. When the stopper 152 is in the second position, the lower wall 154 is spaced from the second region 126 and the aperture 108d may be exposed. Thus, the stopper 152 acts as a valve to prevent or permit water flow to the aperture 108d.

The illustrated blocker 152 further includes a guide wall 158 extending upwardly from the lower wall 154 and defining an inner opening 160. An outer side wall 162 extends upwardly from the lower wall 154 about the outer periphery of the stop 152. The outer sidewall 162 defines one or more apertures 164 through the sidewall 162 to facilitate water flow out of the damper 152 above the damper 152 as the damper 152 moves from the first position to the second position. Similarly, the apertures facilitate water flow from the reservoir 120 over the first region 124 onto the stopper 152, pushing the stopper toward the first position and increasing the sealing force on the stopper 152 and the seal 156.

The illustrated exemplary embodiment of flow device 150 further includes a post 166 extending upwardly from bottom wall 110 and through inner opening 160 of stopper 152. According to an exemplary embodiment, guide wall 158 extends upwardly from bottom wall 110 and surrounds the periphery of post 166. As the stop 152 moves between the first and second positions, the guide wall 158 translates along the post 166, thereby guiding movement of the stop 152 to prevent inadvertent removal of the stop 152 from over the second region 126.

The stop 152 is movable between a first position and a second position in response to an actuator (e.g., a handle, lever, knob, rope, motor, etc.). According to the exemplary embodiment shown, pull cord 170 extends through passage 128, passage 128 extending through bottom wall 110 and post 166. A pull cord 170 extends through the arm 168 and is coupled to the stop 152, e.g., to the side wall 162. The line of the pull cord 170 passes through the arm 168 such that when the proximal end of the pull cord 170 is pulled downward, the distal end of the pull cord 170 pulls upward on the stopper 152, thereby raising the stopper 152 from the first position toward the second position. According to various embodiments, the pull cord 170 may run over a smooth edge of the wall 168, or the pull cord 170 may run over one or more pulleys.

According to various other embodiments, the damper 152 may be actuated via a mechanical linkage located on the panel 102, on the ceiling 104, or on another shower wall 105. For example, referring to the schematic of fig. 21, an actuator (e.g., lever, button, etc.) shown as a knob 172 mounted to the wall 105 is operatively coupled to a cam 174. Actuation of the cam 174 causes movement of the push cable 176, which in turn causes movement of the push cable 176 to move the stop 152 between the first and second positions. According to various other embodiments, such as with reference to the schematic diagram of fig. 22, the blocker 152 may be actuated via an electric actuator 178 (e.g., a motor, solenoid, linear actuator, etc.), the electric actuator 178 being controllable by a control system 200 described in more detail below. According to one embodiment, the stop 152 may be hinged (e.g., centered, at one or more outer edges, etc.) such that the stop 152 rotates from the first position to the second position. According to another embodiment, the blocker 152 may be configured to slide laterally from a first position to a second position. According to various other embodiments, the flow device 150 and its blocker 152 may be configured to be actuated as a tank valve, rotary valve, flap valve, iris, vaporizer, electric valve, hydraulic valve, electro-hydraulic valve, or pneumatic valve. According to various other embodiments, the stopper 152 may be configured to automatically actuate when water in the reservoir 120 or a portion thereof reaches a certain level. For example, one of the plurality of buoys may be interconnected to the damper 152 such that when the buoy is raised to a predetermined level, the damper 152 moves to an open position. The buoy may be interconnected to the stop 152 via a chain, mechanical linkage, lever arm, switch, or the like. According to one embodiment, a less dense material (e.g., foam, inflated containers, evacuated containers, etc.) may be coupled to the damper to make the damper 152 slightly heavier than neutral buoyancy so that the damper may be easily lifted by one or more buoys. According to another embodiment, the stopper may be buoyant and a heavy rain (deluge) feature is activated when the downward force is removed from the stopper.

Referring to fig. 18, when the stopper 152 is in the first position, water from the reservoir 120 is inhibited from flowing through the aperture 108d of the second region 126. Thus, neither the water droplets 20 nor the flow rate 12 fall from the space 180 (e.g., volume, wind eyes, dry zone) below the second region 126. Having space 180 within the falling water droplets 20 has several advantages. For example, the user may breathe easily in the space 180. For example, a user may stand in (warm) water without letting the water fall on the user's face, which many users find uncomfortable.

Referring to fig. 23 and 24, a shower assembly 300 according to another exemplary embodiment is shown, the shower assembly 300 having a flow device 350. The shower assembly 300 includes a panel 302 having a bottom wall 310, the bottom wall 310 having apertures 308a, 308b, 308c. Fig. 24 shows a bottom plan view of the bottom wall 310. The illustrated aperture 308 is similar to the aperture 108 "described above with respect to the bottom wall 110", but in other embodiments may have any one or combination of apertures 108, 108' "as described above. The panel 302 further includes a top wall 318. One or more lamps 2112 (incandescent, fluorescent, light emitting diodes, etc.) may be located above the top wall 318 such that the lamps 212 and any other electronics located there remain separate from the water (i.e., dry). The top wall 318 may be transparent or translucent such that light from the lamp 212 may pass through the top wall 318.

The panel 302 defines a reservoir 320, and the reservoir 320 may be divided by a wall 358 into a first tank 321 (e.g., drip tank, rain tank, etc.) located above a first region 324 of the panel 302 and a second tank 322 (e.g., flow tank, deluge tank) located above a second region 326 of the panel 302, with the wall 358 preventing or limiting water flow between the first and second tanks 321, 322. The apertures 308a, 308b, 308c of the first region 324 are configured to form water droplets 20, whereas the apertures 308d of the second region 326 are configured to form a continuous stream 12 (not shown). As shown above with respect to flow device 150, when stopper 352 is in the first position (as shown), water flow through aperture 308 is inhibited, and when stopper 352 is in the second position (e.g., not in the first position, spaced from bottom wall 310, not sealed, etc.), water flow through aperture 308d is permitted. That is, the aperture 308d is in selective fluid communication with the second tank, while the apertures 308a, 308b, 308c are in constant fluid communication with the first tank.

The wall 358 may have a plurality of holes 364 therethrough to permit water to pass between the first tank 321 and the second tank 322. During operation, water enters the second tank 322 from the water source 306 and begins to fill the second tank 322. When the water reaches the level of the holes 364, the water passes through the wall 358 and begins to fill the first tank 321, thereby supplying water to the holes 308a, 308b, 3008, which in turn causes the formation of water droplets 20. As shown, a first row (e.g., row, layer, level, etc.) of holes 364a (e.g., one or more first holes) is formed at a first height above the top surface 312 of the bottom wall 310 and a second row of holes 364b (e.g., one or more second holes) is formed at a second height above the top wall 312. The first row of holes 364a may be sized such that the flow rate of water that may pass through the first row of holes 364a (e.g., the collective flow rate of the first holes or the first collective flow rate) is less than the flow rate of water into the second tank 322 (e.g., the maximum flow rate from the inlet into the second tank). Therefore, even if water flows from the second tank 322 to the first tank 321, the water level in the second tank 322 may continue to rise. The second row of apertures 364b may be sized such that the flow rate of water that may pass through the first row of apertures 364a (e.g., the first collective flow rate) and the second row of apertures 364b (e.g., the collective flow rate of the second apertures or the second collective flow rate) is equal to or greater than the flow rate of water from the water source into the second tank 322. Accordingly, the water level in the second tank 322 may rise until the water level reaches the second row of holes 364b, and then the water mainly flows to the first tank 321.

Dividing the reservoir 320 into a first tank 321 and a second tank 322 and filling the first tank 321 out of the second tank 322 has several advantages. First, they permit rapid refilling (e.g., reducing the time required for refilling) of the second tank 322 in order to rapidly re-fill the heavy rain features (e.g., splatter, pont heavy rain, floods, etc.). According to an exemplary embodiment, the heavy rain feature may release two-thirds gallons of water every 5 seconds and recharge the heavy rain feature in about one minute at an inlet flow rate of 1.9 gallons per minute. Second, the first tank 321 may act as a manifold to improve the temperature mixing of the water, thereby providing a more consistent experience for the user. Third, the walls inhibit water from flowing from the first tank 321 to the second tank 322, thereby reducing water starvation of the apertures 308a, 308b, 308c during operation of the flow device 350. Fourth, as shown, the first row of holes 364a is higher than the height of the seal 356 on the blocker 352; thus, rapid filling of the second tank 322 to a height above the seal 356 causes a rapid formation of a head on the seal 356 to help stop flow through the flow orifice 308 d.

According to various embodiments, the reservoir of the present invention (e.g., reservoir 120, reservoir 320, reservoir 420, reservoir 520, etc.) and/or the second tank (e.g., the deluxe tank 622, etc.) may act as an accumulator. For example, in a low flow environment, the reservoir and/or the second tank may be fluidly coupled to the showerhead such that water exits the panel through the showerhead when the heavy rain feature is actuated. The showerhead may be wall mounted or hand held, may be a high flow showerhead, or may be a low flow showerhead, which may drain the reservoir relatively quickly, and which may drain the reservoir relatively slowly. The concentrated flow of the shower head may facilitate flushing soap, shampoo and/or mud from the user. Thus, the reservoir and/or the second tank may facilitate accumulation and temporary transfer of water in a low pressure, low flow environment to improve the bathing experience without increasing the overall water consumption.

According to the exemplary embodiment shown, seal 356 is a resilient seal extending radially from stop 352. When the stopper 353 is in the first position, the seal sealingly engages a raised seal strip 357 on the top wall 312 and extends around the second region 326 of the panel 302. The resilient outwardly extending seal 356 is deflectable to compensate for the difference between the height of seal bar 357 and the height of stop 352 when stop 352 is in the first position.

According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the blocker 352 may be interconnected with the electric actuator 178 via a shaft 377. The electric actuator 178, which may be part of the control system 200 or controlled by the control system 200, may be controlled to raise and lower the stop 352. According to other embodiments, the blocker 352 may be actuated by any of the actuation assemblies described with respect to fig. 17-22. According to other embodiments, the electric actuator 178 in fig. 23 may be replaced with a diaphragm coupled to 377. The water flow directed toward the diaphragm will move the blocker 352 from the first position to the second position. For example, the user may control the diverter valve to divert water from flowing directly to the second tank 322 to flowing to the diaphragm, and the water flow to the diaphragm may transmit an upward force to the blocker 352 via the shaft 377, thereby lifting the blocker 352 and causing water to flow out of the aperture 308 d. According to one embodiment, the diverter valve may be controlled by the control system 200.

Referring to fig. 25 and 26, an exploded view and a cut-away elevation view, respectively, of a flow device 450 according to another exemplary embodiment are shown. The shower assembly 400 includes a panel 402 having a bottom wall 410. The illustrated bottom wall 410 is substantially similar to the bottom wall 310 shown and described with respect to fig. 23 and 24. The illustrated flow device 450 includes a wall 458 defining a second tank 422 (e.g., a flow tank, a heavy rain tank, etc.), a stopper 452, and an actuator 470. During operation, water enters the second tank 422 from the water source 406, 406'.

Referring to fig. 26, the flow device 450 includes an actuator 470. The actuator 470 includes a housing 472 and a diaphragm 474, the diaphragm 474 being operably coupled to a shaft 477, the shaft 474 in turn being coupled to the stopper 452. The seal 456 is slidingly engaged between the stop 452 and the ledge 459. Lugs 459 are shown extending radially inward from wall 458 and spaced from second region 426 of bottom wall 410. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, a seal 456 extends radially outward from blocker 452 and seals against a top surface of lug 459 when blocker 452 is in the first or closed position. Thus, water that collects in the second reservoir 422 pushes against the seal 456, thereby assisting in the seal between the seal 456 and the lugs 459. The illustrated shaft 477 extends through the stop 452 such that a lower end 479 of the shaft 477 rests on the top surface 412 of the bottom wall 410, thereby relieving some of the water load on the stop 452 and transferring the load to the panel 402 via the shaft 477 and the bottom wall 410.

When the stopper 452 is in the first position, the space 482 is located between the stopper 452 and the bottom wall 410. As shown, the gap 481 is at least partially defined by a portion of the wall 458 below the ledge 459. A vent tube 465 extends from wall 458 and defines an overflow channel into compartment 481. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the breather tube extends from a first or upper end above the first row of holes 464 a. If the water level in the first reservoir 421 exceeds the height of the upper end of the vent tube 465, then water flows through the vent tube 465, through the aperture 464 in the wall 458, through the gap 481, through the aperture 408d in the second region 426 of the bottom wall 410, and out of the panel 402. In this way, the vent tube 465 provides non-selective fluid communication between the first tank or reservoir 421 and the aperture 408d to allow excess water to pass freely from the first tank 421 to the aperture 408 and out of the shower assembly 400. Thus, vent tube 465 may prevent reservoir 429 from overflowing (e.g., overflowing, pressurizing, etc.), and may provide an indication to the user that the reservoir is filled by releasing water from flow opening 408 d. The user may do nothing and enjoy part of the heavy rain of the basin that they experience in rain, the user may reduce the flow to the reservoir, or may actuate the deluge feature to at least partially empty the reservoir 420.

The housing 472 and diaphragm 474 of the actuator 470 at least partially define a chamber 476, the chamber 476 being fluidly coupled to the water source 406. A return mechanism, shown as a spring 478, generally biases the diaphragm 474 to the second or open position, and thus biases the shaft 477 and stopper 452 to the second or open position. The actuator 470 is shown in series downstream of the inlet 407; however, other arrangements are contemplated. For example, the actuator 470 and inlet 407 may be vertically configured in parallel. By moving between the open and closed positions, the stopper 452 acts as a valve to permit or prevent water flow to the outlet 408d, respectively.

During operation, water from the water source 406 may pass through the filter 401 and enter the second tank 422 via the inlet 407. Water from the water source 406 also enters the chamber 476, thereby pressurizing the chamber 476 and against the diaphragm 474. In turn, the spring 478 is compressed and the shaft 477 moves or pushes the blocker 452 into a first or closed position, which prevents water from exiting the shower assembly 400 through the plurality of flow openings 408d. Thus, the actuator generally maintains the damper 452 in the closed position while permitting water to flow from the inlet or water source 406 to the shower assembly 400. When the flow from the water source 406 to the actuator 470 decreases (e.g., stops, slows, stops, etc.), the pressure in the chamber 476 decreases, allowing the spring to return to the second or selected position, thus allowing the diaphragm 474, the shaft 477, and the stopper 452 to return to the second or selected position, allowing water to flow through the aperture 408d. Thus, for example, when a user selectively actuates the actuator 470, the actuator 470 moves the valve to the open position by changing the amount of water supplied to the actuator (e.g., decreasing). When the diaphragm returns to the second position, water in chamber 476 is drained from the chamber and may flow into the second tank 422, for example, via inlet 407. The normally open arrangement of the return mechanism advantageously moves the damper to the open position when the shower is closed, which allows the panel to drain water quickly, thereby speeding up the drying of the panel, helping to clean and hygienic. That is, the actuator generally maintains the damper 452 in the open position when water is not permitted to flow to the shower assembly 400. Further draining of the panel after use prevents dripping and prevents water stored in the panel for a long period of time from being uncomfortable to transfer to the next shower at low temperatures.

The actuator 470 may be further configured to move the blocker 452 to the open position for a predetermined amount of time, e.g., an amount of time that does not allow the second tank to completely empty of water. For example, the actuator 470 may be configured such that, after actuation of the actuator 470 to move the blocker 452 to the open position, the actuator 470 moves the blocker 452 back to the closed position after releasing only a portion of the water in the tank 422 (e.g., each actuation releases between 25% and 75% of the capacity of the second tank 422). In this way, the user may selectively release water from the second tank 422 a number of consecutive times without having to empty the tank. That is, the user may actuate the valve at least twice in succession (i.e., within about 1-2 seconds after the blocker is returned to the closed position) in order to fully condition the tank. Alternatively or additionally, the actuator 470 may be configured for a user to position the damper 452 in the open position for an extended period of time (i.e., longer than a single actuation) in order to release more or all of the water from the second tank 422. According to another exemplary embodiment, the actuator 422 may be configured to move the damper 452 to the open position for a sufficient amount of time to substantially empty or completely empty a volume of water in the second tank 422 through the aperture 408 d. For example, the actuator 470 may be configured to move the blocker 452 back to the closed position after it has been moved to the open position, substantially simultaneously with completely emptying the tank 422 through the aperture 408d, such that the tank 422 is substantially empty of water.

Further, the shower assembly 400 may be configured such that as long as the water source 406 continuously supplies water to the shower assembly 400 itself, when the actuator 470 is actuated to release water from the second tank 422, water is continuously released from the shower assembly without interruption (e.g., through the first plurality of apertures 408a, 408b, 408c and/or the second plurality of apertures 408 d). That is, the maximum volume of the first tank 421 and the collective flow rate of the first plurality of apertures 408a, 408b, 408c are configured relative to the flow rate of the water source 406 and the initial volume of the second tank 422 (i.e., the volume in which water begins to flow from the second tank 422 to the first tank 421) such that after the second tank 422 is emptied by selectively actuating the actuator 470, water begins to flow from the second tank 422 to the first tank 421 before the first tank 421 can be emptied from its maximum volume.

Referring to fig. 27, a schematic diagram of a shower assembly 400 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The valve shown as diverter valve 490 receives water from, for example, mixing valve 492. When the diverter valve 490 is in the first state, water flows from the water source 406, fills the reservoir 420 via the inlet 407, and pressurizes the chamber 476 to close the stopper 452. Thus, water flows only through the first plurality of apertures 408a, 408b, 408c to drop water droplets 20 from the panel 402. When the diverter valve 490 is in the second state, water flows from the water source 406' into the second tank 422. Thus, the reduction or cessation of water flow through the water source 406 reduces the pressure in the chamber 476, thereby allowing the stopper 452 to lift from the bottom wall 410 and allowing water to flow out of the second plurality of apertures 408 d. Providing water from the water source 406' to the second tank 422 rather than stopping the flow altogether allows the shower to operate continuously while in a streaming state. As depicted, the diverter valve 490 is a two-way valve. According to other embodiments, the diverter valve 490 may be a multi-way valve (e.g., tee, four-way, etc.), which may allow water to be transferred to other plumbing fixtures (e.g., hand shower, shower head 10, bathtub, etc.). According to other embodiments, the valve 490 may be a delivery valve. For example, the delivery valve may be configured to operate both the heavy rain feature and the shower head (e.g., for a final flush), or to operate both the heavy rain feature and the bathtub (e.g., for bathing in the rain).

Referring to fig. 28, a schematic diagram of a shower assembly 500 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The shower assembly 500 includes a panel 502 and a wall 558, the wall 508 dividing the reservoir 520 into a first tank 521 and a second tank 522. Panel 502 may be similar to panel 402; however, the panel 502 does not include a blocker or an actuator. The shower assembly 500 may be suitable for use in high flow source conditions (e.g., a 6 gallon per minute water supply). For example, when the diverter valve 590 is in the first state, water flows from the water source 506 into the first tank 521, flows through the first plurality of apertures, and drops 20 from the panel 502. When the diverter valve 590 is in the second state, water flows from the water source 506' into the second tank 522 and through the second plurality of apertures to fall from the panel 502 in stream 12. Since the water supply is sufficiently high, there is no need to store the water in the second tank 522 (e.g., using a stopper) to generate the heavy rain. Further, since water is directly supplied to the first tank, the wall 558 may not include the first and second rows of holes to allow water passage between the first and second tanks 521, 522. According to another embodiment, the wall 558 may include a second or upper row of holes that may allow water to pass between tanks if the flow rate into one of the first and second tanks 521, 522 is greater than the water flow rate out of the first or second plurality of holes, respectively. Water flowing out of the unexpected orifice (e.g., from the flow orifice when water is supplied to the drip orifice) may be used as a signal to a user to reduce the flow rate of water to the shower assembly 500. It is contemplated that under high flow source conditions, the panel 502 may not include a water reservoir (e.g., the water reservoir 131) formed in the bottom wall of the panel 502 because sufficient flow may be used to prevent the first plurality of apertures from being starved of water as water flows through the second plurality of apertures. According to other embodiments, the shower assembly 500 may be configured with a stopper (e.g., 452) such that the tank 522 collects water and selectively releases water in the manner described above.

Referring to fig. 29 and 30, a cross-sectional elevation and schematic view of a shower assembly 600 having a flow device 650 according to another exemplary embodiment is shown. The shower assembly 600 includes a faceplate 602 having a bottom wall 610. The illustrated bottom wall 610 is substantially similar to the bottom walls 310, 410 shown and described with respect to fig. 23-26. The illustrated flow device 650 includes a wall 658, a stopper 652, and an actuator 670, the wall 658 separating the second tank 622 (e.g., flow tank, storm tank, etc.) from the first tank 621. During operation, water enters the second tank 622 from the water source 606.

Referring to fig. 29, the flow device 650 includes an actuator 670. The actuator 670 has a housing 672 and a diaphragm 674, the diaphragm 674 being operatively coupled to a shaft 677, which in turn is coupled to the blocker 652. The diaphragm 674, the chamber 676, and the spring 678 are similar to those described in relation to fig. 26 in the actuator 470; however, the flow regulator 680 is fluidly coupled downstream of the chamber 676. The flow regulator 680 includes an orifice 682 (e.g., a drain hole, etc.) and a check valve 684. During operation, water from the water source 606 pushes the check valve 684 closed and through the orifice 682 to fill the chamber 676, thereby moving the blocker 652 to the first or closed position.

Referring to fig. 30, restrictor valve 694 is shown upstream of faceplate 602. When restrictor valve 694 is actuated, the flow of water from water source 606 is reduced or stopped. The reduced or stopped flow reduces the pressure on the upstream side of the check valve 684 and thus reduces the pressure of the chamber 676. Thus, the spring 678 urges the diaphragm 674 toward the chamber 676 and water exits the chamber 676 through the check valve 684. When restrictor valve 694 is deactivated (e.g., released), water again flows from water source 606 to inlet 617, closing check valve 684 and filling chamber 676 via orifice 682. According to various embodiments, the restrictor valve 694 comprises a piston or diaphragm that may at least partially block water flow from the water source 606, or may comprise a spring-loaded ball valve that is rotatable to a closed position and sprung back to an open position. According to the illustrated embodiment, restrictor valve 694 operates as a button that may temporarily reduce (e.g., relieve) the supply pressure.

According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the spring 678 and the check valve 684 are configured to allow water to quickly escape from the chamber 676, which causes the blocker 652 to quickly move from the closed position to the open position. The orifice 682 and the chamber 676 are configured to return the blocker 652 to the closed position over a period of time. For example, the size of the orifice may be configured to provide a desired period of time based on the supply pressure of the water source 606. According to an exemplary embodiment, the period of time is about or slightly longer than the time that the water stored in the second tank 622 flows out through the second plurality of holes. According to one embodiment, the period of time is substantially equal to the time that the water stored in the second tank 622 flows out through the second plurality of holes. According to another embodiment, the period of time is between about 5 seconds and 10 seconds. According to another embodiment, the period of time is between about 10 seconds and 15 seconds. According to various embodiments, the actuator 670 begins to move the blocker 652 slowly toward the closed position while the second tank 622 is still dripping. When the stopper 652 is closed, refilling of the second tank 622 is started.

The interaction of the actuator 670 and the flow regulator 680 advantageously requires only plumbing to one of the supply lines to the panel 602, enabling the second tank 622 to drain automatically when the shower is shut off, enabling the user to simply actuate the button, eliminating the need to switch back to the raining feature after the selection of the heavy rain feature.

Since the heavy rain feature is activated when water flow to the actuators 470, 670 is interrupted, the panels 400, 600 automatically empty when water to the shower is turned off. This allows the panel to dry between uses and prevents cold water from getting stuck in the panel, which can be uncomfortable to the user during the next use. Further, as discussed above, the orifice 682 may be configured to slowly move the blocker 652 toward the closed position over a period of time. Thus, when the shower is open, cold water in the plumbing line may clear through the flowbore until the blocker 652 reaches the closed position, thereby preventing the initial cold water from cooling the subsequent water and providing an uncomfortable shower/heavy rain experience.

According to various other embodiments, the hydraulic circuit and actuators 470, 670 may be reversed such that the flow of water into the chambers 476, 676 causes actuation of the heavy rain feature. For example, the chambers 476, 676 may be below the diaphragms 474, 674, the diaphragms 474, 674 may be below the springs 478, 678, and the springs 478, 678 may in turn be coupled to the shafts 477, 677 so as to urge the stops into the normally closed position. Thus, introducing water into the chambers 476, 676 may cause the water to pressurize the chambers 476, 676, thereby pressing up against the diaphragms 474, 674, in turn compressing the springs 478, 678 and lifting the stops 452, 652. A flow regulator with check valves and orifices may be used to allow the chambers 476, 676 to slowly vent and return the damper to the closed position. The water may be introduced into the chamber via, for example, a rotary knob or a push button diverter valve.

Additional techniques are contemplated for use with any of the above embodiments, in whole or in part, and with the control system described below. For a first example, the vibrator may comprise an eccentric motor, a magnetostrictive transducer, or a piezoelectric transducer. According to one embodiment, the vibrator induces ultrasonic vibrations in the bottom wall of the panel. Instructions for controlling the vibrator may be stored in a vibration module in a processing electronics memory. For the second example, at least some of the holes through the bottom wall of the panel are fluidly coupled to the solenoid. According to one embodiment, the solenoid field may cover the top surface of the bottom wall of the panel and push or spray water through holes in the bottom wall. According to various embodiments, one solenoid may be fluidly coupled to one aperture or one solenoid may be coupled to a plurality of apertures. A set of solenoids may be fluidly coupled to the plurality of apertures. Instructions for controlling the solenoid(s) may be stored in a solenoid module in the processing electronics memory. For a third example, the rotating foil with the opening therethrough may be located above or below the bottom wall of the panel. For embodiments where the foil is below the bottom wall, the foil may strike the water droplets to cut the water droplets from the bottom wall, or may create turbulence (e.g., pressure eddies, pressure breaks, etc.) that breaks the water droplets from the bottom wall. The rotating foil on the bottom wall may provide a lateral force to the water droplets in the direction of rotation so that the water flow may not fall vertically. The screen below the foil prevents unintentional contact with the foil and corrects the direction of the water droplets. For embodiments where the foil is above the bottom wall, the optional passage of the foil and the opening above the hole through the bottom wall may create pressure oscillations and/or cavitation, which facilitate water separation into water droplets. Instructions for controlling the foil (e.g., a motor that rotates the foil when it is, etc.) may be stored in a foil module in a processing electronics memory.

Referring to fig. 31, a schematic diagram of a control system 200 according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. The control system 200 may include a controller 230 having a control circuit 260, the controller 230 being powered by a power supply 232. The power source 232 may be a battery coupled to a main power source or any other suitable power source. As shown, the power supply 232 provides power to the control circuit 260; however, in some embodiments, the power source may provide power to one or more of the components of the control system 200 (e.g., the sensor 208, the electric actuator 178, the light 212, the display 214, etc.).

The controller 230 may include one or more interfaces (e.g., a liquid control interface 234, a sensor interface 236, a control input interface 238, a light interface 240, a display interface 242, an audio device interface 244, an electric actuator interface 246, a fan interface 248, an odor diffuser interface 250, a disinfection system interface 252, etc.). The interface may include one or more ports (e.g., sockets, inlets, outlets, connectors, etc.) for communicating with various components of the control system. The interface may include any necessary hardware or software for converting (e.g., digital to analog conversion, analog to digital conversion, pulse width modulation, network protocols, wireless protocols, infrared transceivers) signals and/or data to and from the control component and control circuitry 260.

The control system 200 may include one or more liquid control valves 202. The liquid control valves may include a volume control valve 204, a mixing valve 206, a thermostatic valve, a pressure balancing valve, etc., or any combination thereof. The flow control valve 202 may be a manual (i.e., mechanical) valve having one or more sensors 208 (e.g., position sensor, on-off switch, flow meter, etc.) operatively coupled thereto. According to other embodiments, the liquid control valve 202 may include one or more electronically controlled valves (e.g., solenoid valves). According to an exemplary embodiment, the liquid control valve 202 may include, for example, both a manual valve and an electronic control valve coupled in series. The electronic control valve may be operatively coupled to the control circuit 260 via the liquid control valve 234 and may be controlled by the processing electronics 262, as described in more detail below.

The control system 200 may include one or more sensors that may provide information to the control circuit 260 via the sensor interface 236. As described above, the sensor 2008 may include a valve position sensor, an on-off switch, a water flow meter, and the like. The sensors 208 may include one or more temperature sensors (e.g., thermocouples, thermistors, thermometers, etc.) that may be used to measure the temperature of water from a water source (e.g., T _{Heat of the body} 、T _{Cold water} ) Mixed water temperature (e.g., T _Mixing ) Air temperature, etc.

The control system 200 may also receive user input from one or more control inputs 210. Control inputs 210 may include buttons, switches, knobs, levers, capacitive sensors, touch sensitive display screens (e.g., touch screens), and the like. Control input 210 may receive inputs or commands from a user and provide electronic signals representing those inputs to control circuitry 260 via control input interface 238 for implementing the commands.

The control system 200 may include one or more lights 212. The lamp 212 may provide general utility illumination and/or may provide ambient or ambient illumination. The lamp 212 may have a single color or various colors, and the lamp 212 may have various brightness or intensities. At least one of the lamps may be a flash lamp. The lamp 212 may be operatively coupled to the control circuit 260 via the lamp interface 240.

The control system 200 may include one or more displays 214. The display 214 may provide information to the user such as water temperature, flow rate, selection of songs, volume, etc. The display 214 may be a touch sensitive display and thus serve as the control input 210. The display 214 may also be illuminated at a desired brightness or color and thus function as the light 212. The display 214 may be operatively coupled to the control circuit 260 via the display interface 242.

The control system 200 may include one or more audio devices 216. The audio device 216 may include one or more speakers to provide music and/or sound effects (e.g., thunder, jungle sounds, ocean (e.g., ocean wave) sounds, etc.). The audio device 216 may also include one or more streaming media devices, data media receivers, media servers, portable media players (e.g., iPod, iPhone, zune), and the like. The audio device 216 may be connected to the control circuit 260 via the audio device interface 244 by wire or wirelessly (e.g., IEEE 802.11, bluetooth, etc.).

The control system 200 may include one or more electronic actuators 178, the electronic actuators 178 being controlled by signals from the processing electronics 262. An electronic actuator 178 (e.g., a motor, solenoid, linear actuator, etc.) may be used to move or affect the position of an object. For example, an electronic actuator 178 may be used to move the blocker 152 between the first and second positions. The electronic actuator 178 may be operatively coupled to the control circuit 260 via the electronic actuator interface 246.

The control system may include one or more fans 218 for one or more controls. The fan 218 may be a controlled exhaust fan to affect the humidity of the shower area. The fan 218 may be oriented to provide lateral force to the water droplets 20, thereby creating a more natural non-perpendicular trajectory of the water droplets 20. According to various embodiments, the fan 218 may be a bladed fan, a vaneless fan, an air compressor, or the like. The fan 218 may be operatively coupled to a control circuit 260 via a fan structure 248.

The control system may include one or more scent emitters 220. The scent diffuser 220 may be a nebulizer, a sprayer, or the like configured to provide a scent or fragrance to the shower area. For example, the scent diffuser 220 may provide a fragrance scent, a tidal oil, a marine scent, or the like. The scent diffuser 220 is operatively coupled to the control circuit 260 via the scent diffuser interface 250.

The control system may include one or more disinfection systems 700. The disinfection system 700 may include a heater that increases the temperature of the liquid control valve 202 to kill any bacteria therein. The disinfection system 700 may be operatively coupled to the control circuit 260 via the disinfection system interface 252.

Referring to fig. 32, a detailed block diagram of the control circuit 260 of fig. 24 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The illustrated control circuit 260 includes processing electronics 262, and the processing electronics 262 includes a memory 264 and a processor 266. Processor 266 may be or include one or more microprocessors, application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), circuits including one or more processing elements, a set of distributed processing elements, circuitry for supporting a microprocessor, or other hardware configured for processing. According to an exemplary embodiment, processor 266 is configured to execute computer code stored in memory 264 to perform and facilitate the activities described herein. Memory 264 may be a volatile memory device or a non-volatile memory device capable of storing data or computer code related to the activities described herein. For example, the illustrated memory 264 includes modules 272-288, the modules 272-288 being computer code modules (e.g., executable code, object code, source code, script code, machine code, etc.) configured for execution by the processor 266. When executed by the processor 266, the processing electronics 262 are configured to perform the activities described herein. The processing electronics include hardware circuitry for supporting execution of the computer code of the modules 272-288. For example, the processing electronics 262 include a hardware interface (e.g., output 290) for communicating control signals (e.g., analog, digital) from the processing electronics 262 to the control circuitry 260. Processing electronics 262 may also include inputs 292 for receiving user inputs, e.g., from control circuitry 260, sensor signals from control circuitry 260, or for receiving data or signals from other systems, devices, or interfaces.

The memory 264 includes a memory buffer 268 for receiving user input data, sensor data, audio data, etc. from the control circuit 260. Data may be stored in the storage buffer 268 until the buffer 268 is accessed for data retrieval. For example, the buffer 268 may be accessed by a user interface module 272, a sensor module 274, an audio module 282, or other process that utilizes data from the control circuit 260. The data stored in memory 264 may be stored according to various schemes or formats. For example, the user input data may be stored in any other suitable format for storing information.

Memory 264 further includes configuration data 270. Configuration data 270 includes data relating to fluid control valve 202, sensor 208, control input 210 and display 214, and electric actuator 178. For example, the configuration data may include liquid control valve operational data, which may be data that the flow control module 276 may interpret to determine how to command the control circuit 260 to operate the flow control valve 202. For example, the configuration data 270 may include the following information: information about the flow rates at the various volume control valve 204 positions, and information about the mixing water temperature at the various mixing valve 206 positions. For example, the configuration data 270 may include sensor operation data, which may be data that the sensor module 274 may interpret from the control circuit 260 into data that may be used by the flow control module 276. For example, the configuration data 270 may include a voltage temperature profile or a voltage flow rate profile. For example, the configuration data 270 may include display operation data, which may be data that the user interface module 272 or the lighting module 284 may interpret to determine how to instruct the control circuit 260 to operate the display 214. For example, configuration data 270 may include information regarding size, resolution, refresh rate, orientation, location, etc. Configuration data 270 may include touch screen operation data, which may be data that user interface module 272 may use to interpret user input data from memory buffer 268.

Memory 264 further includes a user interface module 272, user interface module 272 including logic for using user input data in memory buffer 268 to determine a desired user response. The user interface module 272 may be configured to interpret user input data to determine various button presses, button combinations, button sequences, gestures (e.g., drag, swipe, tap), gesture directions, and relationships of these gestures to icons. The user interface module 272 may include logic that provides input validation and prevents unintentional input. For example, logic may be used that actuates a single-finger touch only at the moment and location when the finger is lifted. The user interface module 272 may include logic for responding to inputs by, for example, color circles, object colors, audible tones, sound repetition of input commands, and/or tactile feedback.

The memory 264 further includes a sensor module 274, the sensor module 274 including logic for interpreting data from the sensor 208 and the sensor interface 236. For example, the sensor module 274 may be configured to interpret signals from the sensor interface 236 or the memory buffer 268 in conjunction with a look-up table or a curve from the configuration data 270 to provide temperature, valve position, flow rate, etc. data to the processor 266 and other modules.

The memory 264 further includes a flow control module 276, the flow control module 276 including logic for controlling the flow control valve 202. For example, the flow control module 276 may include logic for processing sensor information (e.g., temperature, valve position, flow rate, etc.) from the sensor module 274 and user input from the user interface module 272 to provide commands to the liquid control valve 202 via the control circuit 260. For example, a user may input a desired temperature into the control input 210, and the flow control module 276 may be configured to receive the input and provide one or more commands to the flow control valve 202 via open loop or closed loop (e.g., using data from the sensor module 274) control to achieve the desired temperature. For example, a user may input a desired flow rate or type of water droplet (e.g., small water droplet 20a, medium water droplet 20b, large water droplet 20 c), and the flow control module 276 may be configured to receive the input and provide one or more commands to the flow control valve 202 via open loop or closed loop (e.g., using flow rate data from the sensor module 274 or water depth in the reservoir 120) control to achieve the desired flow rate. According to an example embodiment, the flow control module 276 may process the user input in conjunction with the configuration data 270 to cause water droplets 20 of a predetermined timing pattern (e.g., period, sequence, etc.) to fall from the faceplate 102. For example, the flow control module 276 may include logic that causes the shower to start with a light rain (e.g., droplet 20 a), to proceed to a medium rain (e.g., including medium droplet 20 b), to a heavy rain (e.g., including large droplet 20 c) with a tilting basin, and to end with a light rain (e.g., droplet 20 a).

Memory 264 further includes a streaming module 278, streaming module 278 including logic for controlling streaming device 150. For example, the streaming module 278 may include logic for processing user input from the user interface module 272 to provide commands to the electric actuator 178 via the control circuit 260. The command may cause the blocker 152 to move from the first position to the second position, from the second position to the first position, or anywhere in between. For example, the streaming module 278 may provide commands to the electric actuator 178 in response to data received from the sensor module 274 (e.g., the depth or height of water in the reservoir 120). According to one embodiment, the streaming module 278 may provide commands to the electric actuator 178 in response to signals received from the flow control module 276 as part of the water droplets 20 causing the predetermined timing pattern. For example, the command may cause the blocker 152 to move to a first position or by moving the blocker 152 to a second position, the command may increase the heavy rain portion of the cycle with heavy rain.

The memory 264 further includes a track module 280, the track module 280 including logic for controlling the fan 218. For example, the trajectory module 280 may include logic to process the input to provide commands to the fan 218. The input may come from the user interface module 272 or the flow control module 276. For example, the fan 218 may absorb or expel air to apply lateral forces to the water droplets 20, thereby creating a more realistic trajectory of the water droplets 20. The trajectory module 280 may provide commands to cause different fan speeds to produce different trajectories of water droplets 20 to help simulate, for example, different rainfall intensities.

The memory 264 further includes an audio module 282, the audio module 282 including logic for controlling the audio device 216. For example, the audio module 282 may include logic for assigning audio content received from the audio device interface 244 or audible feedback indicia from another module in the memory 264 to speakers in the shower area. The audio module 282 may include logic for processing user input from the user interface module 272 to provide commands (e.g., play, stop, skip, etc.) to the audio device 216 via the control circuit 260. According to one embodiment, in response to instructions from the flow control module 276, the audio module 282 may provide commands to speakers in the shower area to simulate thunder while simulating a heavy rain with a tilting basin.

The memory 264 further includes a lighting module 284, which 284 may include logic for controlling the light 212 and the display 214. For example, the illumination module 284 may include logic for brightening or dimming the light 212 and/or the display 214 in response to user input from the user interface module 272. The lighting module 284 may include instructions for processing from other modules in the memory 264. For example, in response to instructions from the flow control module 276, the lighting module 284 may provide commands to dim the light 212 when simulating a heavy rain with a tilting basin, or flash the light 212 to simulate lightning.

The memory 264 further includes a scent module 286, the scent module 286 including logic for controlling the scent diffuser 220. For example, the scent module 286 may include logic for commanding the scent dispenser 220 to provide scent or scent to the shower area in response to user input from the user interface module 272 or in response to instructions from the flow control module 276. For example, scent module 286 may include logic for directing scent diffuser 220 to spray the tidal oil in the shower area when low flow rates of water are flowing through panel 102.

The memory 264 further includes a sterilization module 288, and the sterilization module 288 may include logic for controlling the sterilization system 700. For example, the sanitizing module 288 may include logic for causing the sanitizing system 700 to sanitize at least a portion of the shower assembly 100 in response to user input from the user interface module 272. For example, the user may press a button associated with a "clean now" flag on control input 210, and disinfection module 288 may provide commands to disinfection system 700 in response to inputs received via control input interface 238 and control circuitry 260. According to another embodiment, the disinfection module 288 includes logic for activating and controlling the disinfection system 700 on a schedule (e.g., once a week, once a month, etc.).

According to various embodiments of the shower assembly (e.g., 100, 200, 300, 400, etc.), the shower assembly is configured to be mounted to a overhead structure or ceiling (e.g., rafter, joist, frame, concrete, etc.). The shower system or assembly may also be configured or include a mounting system for mounting to a overhead structure or ceiling and may then be adjusted to a final precise orientation relative to a horizontal plane. For example, the shower assembly may require a specific orientation to ensure proper orientation of the panels (e.g., 102, 202, 302, etc.), and the bottom wall thereof (e.g., 110, 210, 310, etc.) is level and/or to ensure proper water flow to the various outlet ports (e.g., 108, 208, 308, etc.). These mounting concepts are discussed in detail below with respect to embodiments of the shower assembly 1100, but are similarly applicable to other embodiments of the shower assemblies disclosed herein.

Referring to fig. 34-37, according to various embodiments, a shower system or shower assembly 1100 includes an adjustable mounting system or mounting assembly 1140, the mounting system or mounting assembly 1140 being configured to be fixedly coupled to an overhead building structure (commonly referred to as B) and configured to be adjustably coupled to the shower assembly 1100. The shower assembly 1100 includes a panel 1102 similar to those previously described, the panel 1102 defining a reservoir 1120 having one or more tanks 1121, 1122. The reservoir 1120 may include, for example, an outer wall or sidewall 1116 defining an outer boundary of the reservoir and is divided into a first tank 1121 and a second tank 1122 by an inner wall 1158. The inner wall 1158 prevents or limits water flow between the tanks 1121, 1122 (e.g., water received through an inlet coupled to a water source, the inlet and the water source being indicated collectively or individually by reference numeral 1106). A first tank 1121 is formed between the side wall 1116 and the inner wall 1158 and is in fluid communication with the plurality of water droplet outlets 1108a, 1108b, 1108c to release water from the first tank, for example, in the form of discrete water droplets. The first tank 1121 and the water drop outlets 1108a, 1108b, 1108c are configured such that water present in the first tank 1121 is released without selective actuation by a user (e.g., there is no valve to restrict the release of water in the first tank 1121 through the water drop outlets 1108a, 1108b, 1108c such that the user may not control internally (e.g., from the interior of the shower assembly 1100, such as using a valve or other mechanism) whether water passes). The second tank 1122 is not defined within the confines of the inner wall 1158 (e.g., has a circular shape) and is in fluid communication with the plurality of flow outlets 1108d to release water from the first tank in the form of, for example, a continuous flow of water. Releasing water from the second tank 1122 through the flow outlet 1108d may be selectively controlled by a user by an actuator that moves a blocker 1152 that acts as a valve to selectively release water from the second tank 1122. The flow of water to and from the various tanks and outlets as described above may be configured for various other exemplary embodiments (e.g., control, flow direction, flow rate, pressure, height, etc.). Further, the configuration of the outlet 1108 as described above may be configured for various other exemplary embodiments (e.g., geometry, relative geometry, flow rate, etc.).

The shower assembly 1100 also includes an upper wall or housing 1130 (e.g., wall, lid, top, cover, etc.), the upper wall or housing 1130 surrounding the side wall 1116 of the panel 1102 and generally including the tanks 1121, 1122, the stopper 1152, and the actuator 1170 therein. The housing 1130 may provide a sealed upper surface or wall to prevent moisture from the chamber from leaking up into the building structure. The housing 1130 may be further configured to couple to the panel 1102 to form a chamber with the reservoir 1120 (except for the inlet 1106 and outlets 1108a, 1108b, 1108c, 1108d, which are intended to be water inlets or water outlets, and any intended entry into or air outlets) in a substantially sealed manner, which may further prevent moisture (e.g., steam from the hot water received in the tanks 1121, 1122 of the reservoir 1120) from leaking into the building structure to which the shower assembly 1100 is mounted. For example, the housing 1130 may include an outwardly projecting flange 1131 (e.g., extending horizontally), the flange 1131 being complementary to and configured to mate with the outwardly projecting flange 1102a (e.g., extending horizontally) of the panel 1102. Fasteners 1133 (e.g., threaded fasteners, clips, etc.) couple the outwardly protruding flange 1102a of the bottom panel 1102 to the outwardly protruding flange 1131 of the housing 1130. The peripheral trim 1138 can be coupled to edges of the flanges 1102a, 1131 and/or between the flanges 1102a, 1131 (e.g., have a T-shaped or L-shaped cross-section) so as to cover a seam or junction between the flanges 1102a, 1131. Alternatively or additionally, the shower assembly 1100 may include a seal 1132 (e.g., preferably a gasket or alternatively a curable material such as a filler) the seal 1132 being placed (e.g., compressed) between the side wall 1116 and the lower peripheral surface of the housing 1130 so as to form a seal between the panel 1102u housing 1130. Alternatively or additionally, trim 1138 can act as or include a seal (e.g., a gasket and/or a curable material) to form a seal between panel 1102 and housing 1130. Further, the housing 1130 may include a central vertical recess 1135 configured to receive the inner wall 1158, and the inner wall 1158 may extend to a greater height than the side wall 1116 and/or engage the housing 1130 at a height above the side wall 1116 to engage the seal 1132 and/or the housing 1130.

The shower assembly 1100 may also be configured to incorporate building structures in an aesthetically pleasing and/or sealed manner. For example, the building structure may include a suspended ceiling such that the frame and/or dry wall define a recess in which the shower assembly 1100 is substantially placed. The horizontal flange 1131 may incorporate a lower peripheral surface of the ceiling and may include a seal 1136 (e.g., a gasket and/or a curable material) disposed therebetween. The seal 1136 is used to seal the shower assembly 1100 against the building structure in order to prevent moisture (e.g., steam) from the water released through the outlets 108a, 108b, 108c, 108d or other moisture present in the shower enclosure or shower area from reaching the interior of the building structure. According to other exemplary embodiments, the shower assembly 1100 may be configured to be surface mounted to a building structure and include a decorative shell or ornamental appearance to conceal exposed portions of the shower assembly 1100 (e.g., the housing 1130, plumbing, etc.).

As mentioned above, the mounting system 1140 is configured to mount the shower assembly 1100 to a building structure (e.g., frame, concrete, etc.), while providing adjustment therebetween to achieve a proper orientation of the shower assembly 1100 (e.g., a substantially horizontal lower surface of the panel 1102), as required for proper water flow to the outlets 108a, 108b, 108c, 108 d. The mounting system may generally include a bracket 1141, the bracket 1141 being configured to be mounted to a building structure using, for example, threaded fasteners 1142. A bracket mounting feature, such as an elongated stud 1143 (e.g., a post), is coupled to the bracket 1141 in a predetermined non-adjustable position, the bracket mounting feature conforming to a shower mounting feature at a non-adjustable shower mounting position of the shower assembly 1100. In this way, the bracket mounting features are placed in the same fixed (i.e., predetermined non-adjustable) spatial relationship or orientation relative to one another, as are the shower mounting features of the shower assembly 1100 placed relative to one another to facilitate alignment and coupling therewith. An elongated stud 1143 extends vertically downward from the bracket 1141 and may, for example, be supplied to a customer or to a installer that has been attached to the bracket 1141, or may be configured to be coupled to the bracket 1141 at a predetermined location (e.g., using holes, nuts, threads, etc.). Although the bracket 1141 is depicted as being generally H-shaped so as to extend to four mounting locations, the bracket 1141 may have other shapes (e.g., L-shaped, triangular, rectangular) and extend to more or fewer mounting locations (e.g., 2, 3, 5, 6, etc.). According to other exemplary embodiments, the stud may be directly coupled to the building structure without the bracket 1141, as opposed to indirectly coupled to the building structure by way of the bracket 1141 as previously described.

The location at which the threaded fastener 1142 (i.e., for coupling the bracket 1141 to the building structure) is coupled to the bracket 1141 may generally correspond to the installed location of the elongated stud 1143 (e.g., placed within about 1 "thereof), and/or at other locations, for example, depending on the frame of the building structure. Further, the bracket 1141 may include multiple mounting locations for the fasteners 1142, such as by providing holes at various locations for receiving the fasteners 1142, where not all holes may be used for a given installation.

The shower assembly 1100, and in particular the housing 1130, includes shower mounting features that mate with bracket mounting features of the mounting assembly 1140 on the bracket 1141. For example, the shower mounting feature may be an aperture 1133 configured to receive an elongated stud 1143. For example, the housing 1130 may include an aperture 1133 through an upper surface thereof, the aperture 1133 being in the same predetermined non-adjustable spatial orientation or spatial relationship with the elongated stud 1143 to facilitate alignment and receipt of the elongated stud 1143 within the aperture 1133. For example, holes 1133 may be placed in protrusions 1134 of housing 1130 to accommodate other fastening components that allow for coupling, sealing, and/or adjustment.

The fastening components may generally include a joint 1145 (e.g., a horizontal joint), a seal 1146 (e.g., a gasket), and a nut 1147. The fitting 1145 generally includes an upper flange 1145a, a shaft 1145b extending downwardly from the flange 1145a and terminating in an end 1145 c. The fitting 1145 also includes a central through bore 1145d extending therethrough from the flange 1145a through the shaft 1145b and to the end 1145 c. Each joint 1145 is configured as a female member that receives one of the studs 1143 that acts as a male member therein and is adjustably coupled to the studs 1143 via complementary threads (i.e., each stud 1143 has threads on an outer surface thereof, while the through bore 1145d has internal threads to receive the threads of the stud 1143 such that the position of the joint 1145 is adjustable relative to the studs 1143). Since the joint 1145 is vertically adjustable on the stud 1143, the flange 1145a forms an adjustable limit against which the housing 1130 may rest. Each fitting 1145 is additionally disposed within each of the apertures 1133 of the housing 1130 with the flange 1145a disposed above the housing 1130 and the shaft 1145b extending through the apertures 1133. Each stud 1143 may also extend through the bore 1133 of the housing 1130 due to the through-hole 1145d extending through the joint. A seal 1146 is received on the fitting 1145 and placed against the lower surface of the housing 1130. The nut 1147 is adjustably received on the shaft 1145b (e.g., the nut 1147 has internal threads complementary to the external threads of the shaft 1145 b) to compress the seal 1146 and the housing 1130 between the nut 1147 and the flange 1145a of the joint. The seal 1146 may alternatively be provided as part of the nut 1147 (e.g., as a single unit) such that the seal 1146 compresses against the housing 1130 around the aperture 1133. The mounting system may further include a washer 1148, which may be provided as a separate component or as part of a single unit with the seal 1146, the washer 1148 distributing the force from the nut across the seal 1146. Thus, as discussed above, the holes 1133 may be sealed to prevent moisture from the tanks 1121, 1122 from reaching the interior of the building structure. The end 1145c may have, for example, a hex head to allow the nut 1147 to be tightened onto the structure 1145 using conventional tools (e.g., using a wrench to move and/or hold the hex head and nut 1147). For a housing 1130 that includes a protrusion 1134 (not shown), the shaft 1145b of the joint, the seal 1146, the nut 1147, and the stud 1143 may all be placed within the protrusion 1134. According to other exemplary embodiments, the stud or post 1143 may be configured as a female member (e.g., a nut, an internally threaded tube, etc.) configured to receive the joint 1145, with the joint 1145 being alternatively configured as a male member (e.g., an external thread).

A method of mounting shower assembly 1100 (or any of the previously described shower assemblies) using mounting system 1140 is contemplated. In a first step, a building structure for mounting the shower assembly 100 is prepared, which may include mounting plumbing to provide a source of water to the shower assembly 1100, and in proper installation, a ceiling is prepared to provide a recess into which the shower assembly may be placed. Furthermore, during the first step, because all additional steps of installing and connecting shower assembly 1100 occur from within a recess of the building structure or from within shower assembly 1100 itself, all surface treatments of the ceiling and/or other building structure may be completed prior to installing shower assembly 1100.

In a second step, the bracket 1141 is coupled to the building structure. For example, in applications using conventional frames, threaded fasteners 1142 (e.g., drywall or wood screws) are inserted through holes in the brackets 1141 at locations corresponding to appropriate coupling locations of the building structure (e.g., at joist locations). In applications where the building structure is concrete, other threaded fasteners 1143 suitable for use with concrete are inserted through holes in the brackets 1141 to couple to the building structure.

In a third step, the joints 1145 (e.g., four joints 1145 corresponding to the four holes 1133 of the housing 1130) are coupled to the studs 1143 and then adjusted to a final height (e.g., by screwing). The predetermined orientation of shower 1100 (e.g., having a substantially horizontal bottom surface) requires that all of the joints 1145 be substantially horizontal with respect to one another (e.g., within about 1 degree of levelness, and/or within a range of 1/2 angle of elevation). Proper height also requires that shower assembly 1100 be placed at a proper elevation relative to the building structure (e.g., such that seal 1136 is compressed between shower assembly 1100 (such as flange 1131 of housing 1130) and the building structure). Alternatively or additionally, the joints 1145 may be adjusted to a general height (e.g., by screwing) to allow for a greater degree of variation relative to a horizontal plane between the joints 1145. Whether initially adjusted to a final height or a rough height, the height of the fitting 1145 may be further adjusted after the shower assembly 1100 is coupled to the mounting assembly 1140, as described below.

In a fourth step, the shower housing 1130 is coupled to the mounting assembly 1140. During the fourth step, the faceplate 1102 is removed from the shower housing 1130, or the faceplate 1102 initially provided may be disengaged from the housing 1130. The shower housing 1130 is raised and placed so that the shaft 1145b of each fitting 1145 is inserted into the aperture 1133 of the housing. Each seal 1146 is then placed on one of the shafts 1145b, and one of the nuts 1147 is then threaded onto the shaft 1145 b. The nut 1147 is then tightened on the shaft 1145b to compress the housing 1130 and the seal 1146 between the flange 1145a of the joint 1145 and the nut 1147 to fixedly couple the housing 1130 to the mounting system 1140 and seal the bore 1133 of the housing 1130. More specifically, hex head end 1145d is held in a fixed position (e.g., using an open-ended wrench) while nut 1147 is rotated on shaft 1145b (e.g., using another open-ended wrench). If any of the joints 1145 require height adjustment on the stud 1143, for example because they are out of their final position, initially placed in a rough position, or otherwise initially placed in an improper position, each joint 1145 may be adjusted by rotating the joint 1145 on the stud 1143 using, for example, a wrench that engages the hex head end 1145d of the joint. Prior to such adjustment, it is necessary to loosen the nut 1147 in order to reduce compression and friction between the joint 1145, the seal 1146, and the housing 1130 and allow rotation therebetween. After such adjustment, it is necessary then to tighten the nut again in order to recompress the housing 1130 and seal 1146 between the fitting 1145 and the nut 1147. During the fourth step, the seal 1136 may also be placed on the flange 1131 of the housing such that the seal 1136 is compressed between the building structure and the flange 1131 when the housing 1130 is coupled to the mounting system 1140 and raised to a final position. During the fourth step, the inlet 1106 of the shower assembly may also be coupled to plumbing (i.e., a water source) of the building.

In a fifth step, panel 1102 is coupled to housing 1130. The faceplate 1102 is raised and placed relative to the housing 1130 such that their respective outwardly extending flanges 1102a, 1131 are aligned with and in contact with each other, or such that the trim 1138 or seal is compressed therebetween. Fasteners 1137 are then inserted and tightened to couple panel 1102 to housing 1130 and complete the installation of shower assembly 1100. It should be noted that the inner wall 1158, stopper 1152 and/or actuator 1170 may be provided with the housing 1130 and thus mounted with the housing 1130. When so configured, when the panel 1102 is raised and placed relative to the housing 1130, the inner wall 1158 is brought into contact (e.g., sealed contact) with the top surface of the panel 1102 to divide the reservoir 1120 into a first tank 1121 and a second tank 1122. Thus, since panel 1102 is coupled to housing 1130, inner wall 1158 is coupled to panel 1102.

The construction and arrangement of the systems and methods as shown in the various exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, specifications, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.). For example, the position of the elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of present invention. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present inventions.

The present invention contemplates methods, systems, and program products on any machine-readable medium for accomplishing various operations. Embodiments of the invention may be implemented using an existing computer processor, or by a special purpose computer processor for a suitable system incorporated for this or other purposes, or by a hardwired system. Embodiments within the scope of the present invention include program products comprising machine-readable media for performing or having machine-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be any available media that is accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. For example, such machine-readable media may include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical hard disk memory, magnetic disk memory or other magnetic disk storage device, or any other medium that may be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures, or any other medium that may be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. When information is transferred or provided over a network or another communications connection (either hardwired or wireless or a combination of hardwired or wireless) to a machine, the machine properly views the connection as a machine-readable medium. Thus, any such connection is properly termed a machine-readable medium. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of machine-readable media. Machine-executable instructions comprise, for example, instructions and data which cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processing machine to perform a certain function or group of functions.

Although the figures show a particular order of method steps, the order of the steps may differ from what is depicted. Also, two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Such variations depend on the software and hardware system chosen and the designer's choice. All such variations are within the scope of the invention. Likewise, software implementations may be realized with standard programming techniques with rule based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connecting steps, processing steps, comparing steps and determining steps.

Claims

1. A shower system, comprising:

a column configured to be fixedly coupled to the building structure; and

a joint coupled to the shower assembly and adjustably received by the post such that a vertical position of the shower assembly is adjustable relative to the post and the building structure.

2. The shower system of claim 1, wherein the post is a male member and the connector is a female member adjustably received on the post.

3. The shower system of claim 1, wherein the post is a female member and the connector is a male member adjustably received on the post.

4. The shower system of claim 1, wherein the shower assembly includes one or more additional shower mounting features secured to the shower assembly in a first non-adjustable spatial orientation; and

5. The shower system of claim 4, wherein the mounting system includes a plurality of joints, each joint being coupled to the shower assembly at one of the shower mounting features and being adjustably received on the post aligned with one of the shower mounting features such that a vertical position of each shower mounting feature is adjustable along the post on which the shower mounting feature is received.

6. The shower system of claim 5, wherein the shower assembly includes at least three shower mounting features and the mounting system includes at least three posts and at least three joints, each post and each joint corresponding to one of the shower mounting features such that the shower assembly is adjustable to a predetermined shower assembly orientation relative to a horizontal plane.

7. The shower system of claim 6, wherein the shower assembly includes a panel having a plurality of outlets arranged in a plane, and the predetermined shower assembly orientation requires the plurality of outlets to be arranged in a horizontal plane.

8. The shower system of claim 1, wherein the shower assembly includes a chamber configured to receive water from the water source, and the plurality of outlets are configured to pass water from the chamber; and

9. The shower system of claim 8, wherein the upper wall seals in the region through which the fitting extends.

10. The shower system of claim 8, wherein the shower assembly includes a lower wall that seals the chamber and is removable to provide access to the fitting for adjusting the vertical position of the shower assembly.

11. The shower system of claim 10, wherein the chamber is substantially sealed.

12. The shower system of claim 11, wherein the panel includes the plurality of outlets.

13. The shower system of claim 1, wherein the post has external threads and the joint includes a through bore having internal threads for receiving the post and adjusting the vertical position of the shower assembly.

14. The shower system of claim 13, wherein the shower assembly includes an upper wall having an aperture, the fitting includes a flange and an externally threaded shaft extending through the aperture, and the mounting system further includes a nut received on the threaded shaft, the upper wall being compressed between the flange and the nut.

15. The shower system of claim 14, wherein the nut includes a seal that compresses against the upper wall to seal the aperture to prevent water from the shower assembly from passing through the aperture.

16. The shower system of claim 14, wherein the mounting system further includes a seal compressed between the upper wall and the nut to seal the aperture to prevent water from the shower assembly from passing through the aperture.

17. The shower system of claim 16, wherein the mounting system further includes a washer compressed between the seal and the nut.

18. The shower system of claim 17, wherein the seal and the gasket are provided as a single unit.

19. A shower system, comprising:

a bracket configured to be fixedly coupled to the building structure; and

20. A shower system, comprising:

wherein the lower wall is removable from the upper wall to provide access to the mounting system for adjusting the position of the shower assembly relative to the building structure.